
What is the difference between a motion and a resolution?
Board and committee meetings serve as platforms in proposing actions and mounting decisions. It is where committee members come together to discuss and decide on how to best govern their organisation.

The words “motion” and “resolution” are often used and heard of in the meetings of the board of directors of an organization. Both terms are often used simultaneously and are sometimes used interchangeably which brings about unnecessary confusions and misunderstandings.
In reality, these two words are completely different from each other and should not be used in place of the other.
Motions
Simply put, motions are proposals with the aim of making the members of the meeting deliberate on the issue at hand. Motions are proposed by directors that, more often than not, need a “seconder” before the board can debate on the issue and consider voting for a decision.
Moreover, it is not required that a motion is put down into writing, it can be done so verbally. Lastly, motions are widely considered as decisions of the board and do not reflect that of the whole organization.

Resolutions
A resolution, on the other hand, is a motion that has been passed by the members of the meeting of the board of directors. Technically, a motion that is passed by the majority of members present and voting becomes a resolution. It is a formal act that is implemented and is binding of the board members.
A resolution is used to facilitate and document important decisions made by the board. It is used to address a specific issue that a decision from the board needs to occur. It can address something as little as a new brand logo, all the way to adding a new director to the board.
The major differences
Here are the vital differences between a motion and a resolution:
- A motion is a proposal from a member of the meeting whereas a resolution reflects the general opinion of the board
- Generally speaking, not all motions can be resolutions but all resolutions come from motions
- Generally speaking, a motion can be put forward verbally whereas a resolution is written down and recorded
From motions to resolutions.
As we said, not all motions can be resolutions, but all resolutions come form motions. It’s all in how the board makes decisions, if someone wants the board to decide on an item from the agenda, then they must put forward a motion.

If a motion is put forward by a member, except by the chair, it needs to be seconded by another. Once supported, the motion is put to the members as a “discussion”.
Once discussed, or not, the motion can be amended or decided on and a vote occurs. If the vote is favourable to the motion, this is when the motion gets upgraded to a resolution.
At Process PA, we help your implement and record your motions and resolutions through our easy-to use online board portal.
Try Process PA for 30 days free today
Don’t forget to follow our publication to learn more about how jumping online can help your board. We’ll also post helpful tips and tricks to help you with documenting your meeting procedures. You can also follow us on twitter here
Like what you’re reading and want to learn more, sign up to our monthly newsletter below.
Article was updated from original post here.


