Cooperative Directors: Asking Necessary Questions

This report provides questions that directors need to ask in carrying out their responsibilities. The questions pertain to a host of different issues and circumstances confronting directors. They are intended to remind and educate directors about the types of information they need to glean from cooperative management, staff, auditors, members, other directors, and from various outside contacts to effectively carry out their duties. The questions presented pertain to important areas: cooperative character and principles, governance structure, policy and legal aspects, member relations and education, management, financial oversight, audits, consultants, and strategic planning. Some major strategic thinking issues for directors to contemplate are also presented. A listing of USDA information resources relevant to the posed questions is provided at the end of the report