A community health center desperately needed to upgrade its computer network. Unfortunately, the not-for-profit had little IT expertise on staff or on its board of directors. That’s when it decided to form an advisory committee made up of people who could analyze the situation and help guide IT decision-making. This included a retired technology company executive, a cybersecurity specialist and a longtime volunteer who, in her paid job, managed technology purchasing for a hospital network.
This is only one example of an advisory board. These boards can function to guide specific projects or supplement existing expertise. At the same time, they can provide roles for major donors who may not be right for your regular board.