Board portal software can be a useful tool for helping businesses improve their governance. Which vendor should you pick from the many options available? If you’re able to attend demos with potential vendors there are a few key questions you should ask. These can help you choose the right software for your needs.

How do members find it easy to use the platform? Whether it’s a simple user-friendly interface or a more complex application, the it’s important to have a positive experience for board members. Check for features to ensure that your directors are able to make use of the system without extensive training. Also, look at how easy it is for board admins to add directors, upload materials and alter license assignments.

Are there features that can facilitate effective data collection during meetings? Look for tools such as live chat, polling, Q&A, and proposal feeds that enable all participants to exchange ideas and give feedback in real time. This will ensure that everyone is involved and that the board can make informed decisions at online meetings.

Is it simple to draft and distribute meeting minutes? Consider features that allow you to create an agenda for your meeting and then automatically produce a draft of the minutes. This will save you the burden of keeping the track of several spreadsheets or word documents that include detailed notes from each meeting.

Do you provide features that allow directors to how to run a board meeting continue working in between meetings? Look for task managers with clearly defined deadlines and responsibilities so that no one is confused about who’s in charge of what.