Resource Library
In Part 1 of CLCC’s Board Development Toolkit, we explore a number of board diagnostic tools, and why they are important. Before improving your board’s effectiveness, it’s essential to understand its current strengths, gaps, and areas for growth. Diagnostic tools help your land trust: 1) Identify skillsets, demographics, and perspectives represented on your board; 2) Pinpoint areas where your board’s composition or practices may need improvement; 3) Create a foundation for targeted recruitment, training, and role clarification efforts. By conducting a thorough assessment of the current board, your organization can recruit to fill gaps and better align its board’s composition and capacity with its strategic goals and mission.
Key Tools for Board Diagnostics
Board Composition/Profile Matrix
A strong, diverse board is vital for any land trust, and the Board Composition Matrix ensures it has the necessary skills and perspectives. This tool visually outlines competencies, demographics, and connections within your board, helping you spot gaps to address. By listing attributes like fundraising expertise, legal knowledge, and community connections, you can identify areas for recruitment, ensuring your board remains strategic and balanced. Considering values and approach can also help determine if the board member will be a good fit within the organizational culture.
Examples & Resources:
- Board Matrix Sample – Courtesy Connie Manes, Manes Consulting
- Board Composition Grid Sample – Courtesy Land Trust Alliance Resource Center
- Board Profile Matrix Sample – Courtesy Judy Anderson, Community Consultants
Self-Assessment Survey
Conducting a Self-Assessment Survey lets board members evaluate their contributions and alignment with the organization’s needs. Questions about participation, confidence, and role-understanding encourage honest discussions about strengths and areas for growth. Implementing this process annually and completing a collective review helps uncover trends and actionable insights.
Examples & Resources:
- Board Self-Assessment Survey Sample – Courtesy Connie Manes, Manes Consulting
Organizational Lifecycle Analysis
Knowing your organization’s lifecycle stage—start-up, growth, maturity, or renewal—is helpful for effective governance. Lifecycle Analysis identifies how your board’s focus should evolve based on its current stage. For example, the board of a Growth-stage land trust might prioritize fundraising and community ambassadorship, while one moving into the Maturity stage may shift to governance and long-term strategic oversight.
Learn More:
- Organizational Life Stages Guide – Courtesy Megan Motil, Parallel Solutions
We’re Here to Help!
The Connecticut Land Conservation Council is committed to supporting land trusts in all phases of board development, including board assessments. Contact us to learn more about our programs and how we can assist your land trust in achieving its goals. Whether it’s a Boardroom Briefing or a tailored visioning session for your land trust, CLCC is here to help.