What is the primary difference between an advisory board and a governing board?

The primary difference between an advisory board and a governing board lies in the legal authority that board members possess. A governing board has formal legal responsibilities, including the power to make binding decisions regarding the organization's policies and operations. Members of a governing board are accountable for the organization's compliance with laws and regulations, as well as its overall mission and sustainability.

In contrast, an advisory board serves primarily to provide expert advice and support to the governing board or the organization’s management without the power to make formal decisions. Advisory board members may offer insights based on their expertise or experience, but they do not have fiduciary responsibilities like governing board members do. This distinction underscores the advisory board's role as supportive rather than authoritative.

Understanding this difference is crucial for those involved in governance and strategic planning within organizations, as it influences how decisions are made, who is responsible for actions taken, and the overall structure of leadership within an organization.