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In Good Order Consulting is committed to helping organizations strengthen their governance practices. This page offers practical insights and guidance on parliamentary procedure, effective meetings, and organizational governance.
Six Steps to Handling a Motion
Six Steps to Handling a Motion
In formal meetings, most business is conducted through motions. The basic process follows a clear sequence that allows members to propose ideas, discuss them, and make decisions.
A member makes a motion - after obtaining the floor.
Another member seconds the motion.
The chair states the motion to the assembly.
Members debate the motion.
The chair puts the question (motion) to a vote.
The chair announces the result and effect of the vote.
Following these steps helps ensure that decisions are made in an orderly and fair manner.
Understanding Quorum
Understanding Quorum
A quorum is the minimum number of members who must be present for an organization to conduct official business (i.e. vote on items and make decisions).
The quorum is typically defined in the organization’s bylaws. If the bylaws do not specify a number, a quorum is generally understood to be a majority of the membership. (insert RONR reference)
Without a quorum, the group may still:
fix the time to which to adjourn
adjourn
recess
take measures to obtain a quorum
However, substantive business cannot be conducted until a quorum is present.
When is a Two-thirds Vote Required?
When is a Two-thirds Vote Required?
A two-thirds vote is required when a decision would limit the rights of members or restrict debate.
Common examples include:
Closing debate (Previous Question)
Limiting or extending debate
Suspending the rules
Amending bylaws when advance notice was not given
The higher vote threshold helps protect the rights of the minority while allowing the majority to make decisions.
What Makes a Motion Out of Order?
What Makes a Motion Out of Order?
A motion may be ruled out of order if it violates the rules of the organization or conflicts with parliamentary procedure.
Common reasons include:
the motion conflicts with the bylaws or adopted rules
the motion is not relevant to the business before the assembly
the same question has already been decided during the session
the motion conflicts with a motion that is currently pending
The chair is responsible for ruling motions in or out of order, though members may appeal the chair’s decision.
The Role of the Chair
The Role of the Chair
The chair plays a critical role in ensuring that meetings are conducted efficiently, fairly, and in accordance with an organization’s governing rules. Beyond facilitating discussion, the chair helps guide the meeting process, maintain order, and ensure that decisions are reached through clear and recognized procedures. When this role is understood and exercised effectively, meetings tend to be more productive and respectful of all participants. Understanding the responsibilities of the chair can significantly improve the quality of an organization’s decision-making process.
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5 Signs Your Bylaws Need Updating
5 Signs Your Bylaws Need Updating
Bylaws provide the foundation for an organization’s governance, yet many groups adopt them early in their history and rarely revisit them. Over time, however, an organization’s structure, leadership roles, and operational needs may evolve. When governing documents no longer reflect current practice, confusion can arise around elections, decision-making, or procedural authority. Recognizing the signs that bylaws may need review is an important step toward maintaining effective and transparent governance.
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