Stop Winging It: How Boards Can Avoid Decision Failure

Condominium boards exist to make decisions in the best interest of the community and then follow through. However, when it comes time to act, the board may find reasons to stall or back down. In such cases, the board becomes essentially ineffective. Some of the most common sources of decision failure include:
Fear of Backlash – Some board members may be afraid to act because they know the decision that needs to be made will anger their neighbors, and they don’t want to be held responsible.
Lack of Information – In some cases, the board may see that an issue clearly needs to be solved, but it make not have enough information to come up with a proper solution.

Fear of Change – Because board members are often residents too, they may be just as likely as other residents to be afraid of the changes that come with big decisions.
Avoiding Increased Workload – Many decisions the board is faced with involve a significant increase in workload. If board members are already busy, they won’t want to add to their responsibilities.
Denial – Sometimes, the board may avoid making a decision because members are in denial that a viable solution exists. They may not like the options presented, or they may be afraid of choosing from among them.
Regardless of the source of your board’s decision failure, the situation can usually be rectified by enacting a clear procedure for decision making and action, as well as for dealing with roadblocks.

1. Create a Timeline
To prevent the board from stalling on a difficult decision, create a clear timeline that applies to every issue you face. The timeline should include a specific deadline for discussing the issue once it has been brought up.
2. Listen to Board Members
In some cases, board members may simply be stalling when they bring up potential roadblocks. However, that doesn’t mean that the roadblocks won’t pose a problem, so listen to each member’s issues and try to formulate solutions for each.
3. Form a Committee
When dealing with a particularly difficult problem, establish a committee of board members that will continue working on the issue outside of regular meetings.
4. Consult Third Parties if Necessary
Sometimes, you simply can’t come to a decision on your own. In such cases, you can resolve the problem by hiring a third party such as a property project management services company to review the issue and make the decision for you. Make sure that the party you hire is agreed upon by the board, and that the board agrees to follow whatever recommendation the third party makes about the issue.
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