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Accountability in Action: How Honest Evaluation Shapes Governance | Business Plus
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Board Effectiveness Toolkit
Regular board evaluation is a cornerstone of strong governance and high-performing boards. These internal board evaluation templates are designed to support directors and boards in taking a structured, honest look at how the board is functioning and where it can continue to improve.
The templates provide a practical framework to help boards:
- Reflect on board effectiveness, dynamics and culture.
- Assess clarity of roles, responsibilities and decision-making.
- Review the quality of information, oversight and challenge.
- Identify strengths, gaps and priority areas for development.
They can be used annually as part of a board's normal governance cycle and are suitable for both regulated and non-regulated financial services boards.
Why Internal Board Evaluations Matter
Internal board evaluations encourage continuous improvement and accountability. When done well, they help boards move beyond compliance to focus on performance, behaviours and long-term value creation. They also give individual directors an opportunity to reflect on their own contribution and development needs.
Internal and External Evaluations: Best Practice
While annual internal board evaluations are essential, governance best practice recommends that boards undertake an independent external board evaluation at least every three years.
External evaluations bring objectivity, fresh insight and benchmarking against leading practice, helping boards to:
- Test assumptions and blind spots.
- Strengthen board effectiveness and succession planning.
- Build confidence with stakeholders, regulators and investors.
IoD Ireland Independent External Board Evaluations
In addition to these internal tools, IoD Ireland provides independent external board evaluations tailored to boards across sectors and stages of maturity. Our approach is confidential, proportionate and focused on delivering practical, actionable outcomes that support boards and directors in their roles. If you would like to explore an external board evaluation or discuss what approach is right for your board, please get in touch with Caroline Kinsella, Board and Member Services Director.
