Robert's Rules of Order: Parliamentary Procedures for Meetings

August 25, 2024 3 min read Governance Procedures Meetings Parliamentary Order Procedures Governance

A comprehensive guide to the parliamentary procedures commonly followed in meetings, as codified in Robert's Rules of Order.

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Robert’s Rules of Order, often simply referred to as “Robert’s Rules,” is a widely recognized manual of parliamentary procedure that outlines the rules and guidelines for conducting meetings and making decisions as a collective body. Originally authored by U.S. Army Brigadier General Henry Martyn Robert in 1876, the manual has undergone several editions and updates to address contemporary needs and provide clarity on procedural aspects.

Key Components of Robert’s Rules of Order

General Principles

The core principles of Robert’s Rules of Order include majority rule, minority rights, member rights, and balanced discussion. These principles help maintain order and fairness in the decision-making process.

Types of Motions

Main Motions: Proposals for new business or actions for the group to decide upon.
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1Example: "I move to allocate funds for the new project."
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Subsidiary Motions: Modify or affect how the main motion is handled (e.g., amend, refer to committee).
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1Example: "I move to amend the motion by striking out 'funds' and inserting 'resources.'"
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Privileged Motions: Relate to urgent matters not directly related to pending business (e.g., recess, adjourn).
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1Example: "I move to adjourn the meeting."
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Incidental Motions: Address questions of procedure arising during the consideration of other motions.
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1Example: "Point of order!" (to challenge a breach in procedure).
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Meeting Structure

Meetings follow a structured sequence, widely known as the “Order of Business,” which typically includes:

Call to Order: Initiation of the meeting by the chair.
Approval of Minutes: Confirmation of the recorded minutes from the previous meeting.
Reports: Presentations by officers, boards, or committees.
Unfinished Business: Discussion on topics carried over from previous meetings.
New Business: Introduction of new topics for consideration.

Usage and Applicability

Organizations and Settings

Robert’s Rules of Order is utilized in a variety of settings, including:

Nonprofit organizations
Homeowners associations (HOAs)
Governmental bodies
Professional associations

Benefits of Following the Rules

Efficiency: Streamlines meeting procedures, enabling a productive environment.
Order: Ensures meetings proceed in an orderly, predictable manner.
Fairness: Protects the rights of all members, facilitating balanced discussions.

Historical Context

Henry Martyn Robert was inspired to write the manual after nightmare experiences presiding over meetings. The first edition, published in 1876, was modeled after the existing procedures of the U.S. House of Representatives, with modifications for broader applicability. Since then, Robert’s Rules of Order has been continuously revised, with the most recent 12th edition reflecting contemporary practices and clarifications.

Commonly Used Terms

Quorum

The minimum number of members required to be present to conduct business.

Pro Tem

Temporary designation for officers when the regular officer is unavailable.

Point of Order

An assertion raised by a member concerning a breach of rules.

FAQs

What is the purpose of Robert's Rules of Order?

The primary purpose is to provide a uniform set of procedures for conducting meetings, ensuring order, efficiency, and fairness in decision-making processes.

When are Robert's Rules of Order commonly used?

They are used in formal meetings of various organizations, including nonprofits, professional associations, and governmental bodies.

How do Robert's Rules of Order ensure fairness?

The rules guarantee that all members have the opportunity to participate in discussions, propose motions, and vote, maintaining balanced and democratic procedures.

References

Robert, H. M., et al. (2020). Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 12th Edition. Da Capo Press.
“Robert’s Rules of Order Online - Parliamentary Procedure and Parliamentarians”. www.robertsrules.com.

Summary

Robert’s Rules of Order offers a structured framework for conducting meetings with emphasis on order, efficiency, and fairness. By following these rules, organizations can achieve balanced and productive discussions, ultimately facilitating effective decision-making.