Importance of quality board reporting

Based on observed practice, we have identified the following common weaknesses in board reporting:

• key messages do not stand out clearly with important information being buried in the detail;
• board packs are too long with individual papers not having an executive summary;
• reports unclear on what action or other input is required from the board – for noting, for information or for decision;
• no standard report templates developed to assist the directors in knowing where to look for key information;
• report writers do not receive formal training on writing board reports;
• feedback is not provided by the board to management on the quality of reports produced;
• late distribution of board packs leaving insufficient time for directors to read the materials in advance of meetings.

The five key actions to take now

To assist, we set out below five suggestions for drafting effective board reports:

1. Sufficient information

Ensure that reports are concise, easy to read, succinct but contain sufficient information for the board's needs.

2. Clear

Use plain English, avoid jargon, and explain acronyms.

3. Executive summaries

Longer papers should have an Executive Summary, summarising the content in the main body of the report, capturing the key points and setting out any approvals required from the board, followed by the detailed report.

4. Appendices

Additional information, if required, should be attached by way of appendices, which should be clearly labelled and relate to what is being addressed in the main report.

5. Templates

Develop templates for different types of reports and make them available internally.

We are here to help you

If you have any queries in relation to the above or if we can assist you with undertaking a review of your board reports, please do not hesitate to reach out to a member of the Entity Governance and Compliance team or get in touch with your usual PwC contacts.