This checklist can be used to provide insight into what a truly accountable annual report might look like. The key to an annual report that makes a difference is when the annual report is not reporting against how "busy" the organization has been. It reports against vision, strategy and key stakeholder expectations.

The individuals who are selected to be on the board of directors of an organization have overall responsibility for the activities of the organization. Directors have duties and responsibilities to assure good governance and act in the interests of the organization – including putting the organization’s interests ahead of their own. Governance is about the Board making the choices that create the future for the communities they serve. 

To operate at the speed of today’s business environment, boards must strategically and constantly keep an eye on the big picture. But since the big picture keeps changing, they must cultivate an ability to be aware of future trends and how these trends may affect their business. One of the most frequently asked questions by CEOs  of nonprofit organizations today is, “What can I do to get my Board to be more strategic?