A board does not evaluate its own performance. What governance best practice is missing?

• A. Board self-assessment
• B. Annual strategic planning
• C. External certification
• D. Executive sponsorship

Answer: (A)

Regular board self-assessment is the governance practice being described. When a board does not evaluate its own performance, it lacks a formal mechanism to measure how effectively it fulfills its duties, oversees strategy and risk, and works together as a governing body. Self-assessment brings to light whether the board has the right mix of skills, appropriate leadership, effective committees, clear information flows, and productive meeting processes. It also helps identify gaps in governance practices and informs targeted improvements, succession planning, and ongoing development for directors.

Annual strategic planning is essential for directing the organization, but it focuses on setting strategy rather than assessing how well the board governs. External certification is not a standard expectation for boards and isn’t a regular governance practice for evaluating board effectiveness. Executive sponsorship relates to ensuring management supports and implements the board’s decisions; it isn’t about measuring the board’s own performance.