Page 65 - The Handbook - Legal and Accounting Networks 81
P. 65
Law and Accounting Networks and Associations
Documentation of processes and decisions is very important, especially in Level 3 networks where there is a
constant change in the directors. Minutes must be taken at each meeting. Copies of emails should be accessible
in case there is a question of how a decision was reached or an action taken.
The organization also must be transparent. There needs to be a process in which staff and directors can be in
contact with members over not only major decisions, but also minor ones as well. While information is
important, the personal touch is much more so. Formality needs to be balanced against informality.
Each new board member or other leader should receive an orientation. This will create consistency going
forward. The board, practice group leaders, and other leaders should have annual orientations. Networks cannot
require participation. However, active participation in committees, regional groups, and industry and practice
area groups should be a precondition of holding a particular position in the network. As the network moves
forward, all of the member participants of the network should receive periodic reports. In this way, they are
familiar with any issues affecting their region, firm, and/or practice.
53
Documentation of processes and decisions is very important, especially in Level 3 networks where there is a
constant change in the directors. Minutes must be taken at each meeting. Copies of emails should be accessible
in case there is a question of how a decision was reached or an action taken.
The organization also must be transparent. There needs to be a process in which staff and directors can be in
contact with members over not only major decisions, but also minor ones as well. While information is
important, the personal touch is much more so. Formality needs to be balanced against informality.
Each new board member or other leader should receive an orientation. This will create consistency going
forward. The board, practice group leaders, and other leaders should have annual orientations. Networks cannot
require participation. However, active participation in committees, regional groups, and industry and practice
area groups should be a precondition of holding a particular position in the network. As the network moves
forward, all of the member participants of the network should receive periodic reports. In this way, they are
familiar with any issues affecting their region, firm, and/or practice.
53
