Crown agencies occupy an unusual place in the world of Canadian corporations. Though owned by the government and responsible for services that Canadians across the country rely on, they are structured like private companies. Crown corporations are some of the most relied-uponentities in Canada, and their public ownership and provision of vital services means they are held to a high standard of accountability.
Due to the nature of the business many Crown agencies are involved in (media, banking, and the post office, to list just three prominent examples), they are often responsible for handling large amounts of sensitive information about Canadian citizens. In an age of data theft, hacking, and malware, this puts huge pressure on Crown agencies to take the utmost precautions with cyber security.
In addition to standard cyber security tools used to protect data and customer information, Crown agencies have started taking the additional step of adopting the latest software tools to help facilitate more secure data sharing and communication at the board level. Communication between directors of a corporation can be a security blind spot, as many board members are not themselves employees of the organization. This is why companies like Vancouver-based Aprio have developed software tools specifically designed to board communications more streamlined and secure.
Companies that want to invest in the best tools for board data sharing should learn about board meeting software and explore how board portals can meet their board communication needs. Portal software is designed to create a virtual space where board secretaries can share the memos, reports, documents, and data that help board members make informed decisions about their organizations. Board portals eliminate the need for board documents to be couriered to each director before meetings without compromising confidentiality. And because portal software can be used both on a desktop and as a tablet app, directors can access from anywhere. Not only does this make it easier for board members to prepare for meetings, it also makes information easier to find during the meeting itself.
These features are especially important for Crown agencies because their board members are often working out of locations across the country. The ability to share information and collaborate on documents through a remotely makes the boards of these agencies more effective at carrying out their responsibilities. And because board portal software offers some of the most sophisticated levels of online security available, they can do so without risking a breach of sensitive or confidential information.
Building good communication habits within a board of directors is key to long-term success, so perhaps it isn’t surprising that some of the most innovative and successful Crown agencies are adopting technological solutions such as board portals to help ensure a smooth flow of information. In addition to keeping Canadians’ personal data secure, board portals are helping Crown agencies discharge their duties more efficiently and effectively and contributing to the ongoing financial health of important public services.
