[Linux-aus] State representation on the board

[Andrew Cowie]

On Fri, 2004-01-09 at 03:09, Anthony Towns wrote:
> get people from each state on the ctte. :)

While I disagree with AJ that state representation is *necessary* to the
LA Committee being effective, I certainly think it's a good idea.

I sit on a Canadian Board (Canada, with 10 provinces and 3 territories -
take that!) which has an Constitution that allows for 16 people (though
we typically have 12-15 at any given time).

We seek to recruit people to the Board so that collectively bring:

        * Regional representation (BC, Alberta/Prairies, Ontario,
        Quebec, Maritimes) as well as a few etrangiers for good measure.
        
        * Demograhic balance (Youth, Women, Aboriginals)
        
        * Industry representation (High Technology, Manufacturing,
        Government, Pharmacuticals, etc)
        
        * Specific skills (Communication, Strategic Planning, HR,
        Finance)
        
        * Specific stakeholder groups (Alumni, Our Program Staff,
        Parents (of Alumni))
        
So, for example, I am able to hit

        High Tech industry
        Alumni
        Foreigner (previously Maritime and Ontario before that)
        Youth (well, not anymore)
        Strategic Planning skill

The others all bring their own combinations. Collectively, we provide a
wide breadth of skill and experience that we can bring to bear on the
governance of the organization.

We can do this because we have so many seats on the board. [Well,
recruiting our own volunteers to be Directors helps too]

So, for Linux Australia, this whole thread has made me think to 
recommend:

1) That we enlarge the Managing Committee

2) That we come up with a list of stakeholders/skills that we'd like to
see filled.

Candidates could indicate what skill sets (and geographies, etc) they
possess. Then the membership can decide when we vote.

It'll take a constitutional change (at least for #1).

AfC

-- 
Andrew Frederick Cowie
Operational Dynamics Consulting Pty Ltd

Australia: +61 2 9977 6866  North America: +1 646 472 5054

http://www.operationaldynamics.com/