Who Owns Your Ideas?

Intellectual property is defined as a method, process or idea developed by an individual or group. It may be protected by the originators or an organization.

Though an employee designs training material, curricula or manuscripts while on the payroll, this intellectual has commercial value which may create an income stream for years to come.  Who owns the rights to intellectual property?

If a nonprofit board has failed to define or communicate ownership to employees this can become a source of contention.  Periodic review and amendment of bylaws, and polices and procedures are an effective method of bringing clarity, protecting interests and may even create the opportunity for negotiation.

Nine Considerations For A Healthy Nonprofit Board

A Nonprofit Board is charged with authorizing key paid positions, fiscal responsibility, strategic planning and organizational visibility. It is baffling that new drivers must study for a permit and take a driving test, but there is no requirement to prepare Americans for marriage or parenting, or Board members to oversee a nonprofit organization that may impact the lives of hundreds, even thousands of people. In Oregon there are three types of nonprofit. There are nonprofits that benefit the public, those that serve their own membership only, and religious nonprofits. Each has different challenges and obligations.This post will focus primarily on nonprofits that benefit the public.

There are good Boards, and troubled Boards. Based on observation and experience, here are our recommendations for nine considerations for building a healthy Nonprofit Board.

Relational and Technical                Commitment and Flexibility             Accountability
Industry & Sector Balance                 Passion & Prior NP Experience          Ability To Manage Conflict
Technical Skills                                  Obtain Financial Buy In                       Capabilities & Training
Connections & Resourcefulness         Commitment As A Working Board      Evaluation & Improvement

This are key aspects of one element in a course we are developing on Nonprofits.