Board Goes Wireless

by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

The St. Ignatius School District #28 Board will be going wireless. Current board packages are layered with documents that reference specific board items in a volume of paper that is not only overwhelming and difficult to manage, but is expensive to produce and dispatch. This board recognizes the effective and efficient use of a digital board package can save time and money while improving communication.

The difficulty in making the switch for many boards has been centered around the concept of touch. Having a document in hand is often preferred over the use of a computer or laptop. Even the best laptops often present a cumbersome barrier between the board and its constituents during a meeting. In addition, reviewing board material should be as easy as turning a page and making notes while doing so. The solution for this board will be Apple's iPad.

The iPad allows board members to handle their board agenda with ease, transferring from referenced document to the main agenda with a touch of their finger. I say "touch" because that is what gives the iPad creditability over laptops or stand-alone computers. Its like holding a book in your hand. Turning pages in a document is easier than licking your finger.

After a quick demonstration at the August 17, 2010 meeting. The board was ready to buy into wireless board meetings. As superintendent, I believe the use of this technology by the board not only improves process and procedure, but will allow the board more convenience in reviewing important information in being best prepared for meetings. It will certainly improve communication and allow members to get their board materials several days in advance. The bottom line is that better tools result in improved outcomes.