Governing vs. Governing Body

Attribute	Governing	Governing Body
Definition	The act of exercising authority or control	A group of individuals responsible for making decisions and setting policies
Scope	Can refer to the actions of a single individual or entity	Usually refers to a collective body representing an organization or institution
Responsibilities	May involve decision-making, rule-setting, and enforcement	Typically responsible for overseeing the organization's operations, setting strategic direction, and ensuring compliance
Composition	Can be an individual or a group	Comprised of multiple individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise
Accountability	May be accountable to higher authorities or stakeholders	Accountable to the organization or institution they represent

Definition

Governing refers to the act of making decisions and setting policies for an organization or entity. It involves the process of directing and controlling the activities of a group of people or an organization. On the other hand, a Governing Body is a group of individuals who are responsible for overseeing the governance of an organization. They are typically elected or appointed to represent the interests of stakeholders and ensure that the organization operates in accordance with its mission and values.

Authority

When it comes to authority, Governing has the power to make decisions and enforce policies within an organization. This authority is usually derived from laws, regulations, or the organization's governing documents. In contrast, a Governing Body has the authority to oversee the actions of the governing body and hold them accountable for their decisions. They have the power to approve or reject proposals put forth by the governing body and ensure that the organization is operating in the best interest of its stakeholders.

Responsibilities

The responsibilities of Governing include setting strategic goals, making key decisions, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. They are also responsible for managing risks and overseeing the financial health of the organization. On the other hand, the responsibilities of a Governing Body include appointing and evaluating the performance of the governing body, approving budgets and major expenditures, and ensuring that the organization's mission and values are upheld.

Composition

Governing is typically composed of senior executives, board members, or other key stakeholders within an organization. They are responsible for making day-to-day decisions and implementing policies to achieve the organization's goals. In contrast, a Governing Body is made up of individuals who are independent of the organization and have a diverse range of skills and expertise. They are often elected or appointed based on their qualifications and experience in governance.

Decision-making

When it comes to decision-making, Governing has the authority to make final decisions on behalf of the organization. They are responsible for weighing the risks and benefits of different options and choosing the best course of action. On the other hand, a Governing Body plays a more oversight role in decision-making. They review and approve decisions made by the governing body, ensuring that they are in line with the organization's mission and values.

Accountability

Governing is accountable to the organization's stakeholders, including employees, customers, and shareholders. They are responsible for ensuring that the organization operates ethically and transparently. In contrast, a Governing Body is accountable to the organization's governing documents and the laws and regulations that govern its operations. They are responsible for ensuring that the governing body acts in the best interest of the organization and its stakeholders.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Governing and Governing Body are both essential components of effective governance within an organization. While Governing is responsible for making day-to-day decisions and setting policies, a Governing Body plays an oversight role in ensuring that the organization operates in accordance with its mission and values. By understanding the differences between these two entities, organizations can ensure that they have a strong governance structure in place to guide their decision-making and ensure their long-term success.