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This is the primary text for this topic. It is well written, concise, accurate, and essential to those who desire accuracy in parliamentary processes.
The Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure is not the kind of read that once you pick it up you just can't put it down, but it is an easy to use reference book for those leading meetings and their parliamentarians.
The book includes model Bylaws (useful for our Homeowner's Association which is in the process of revision), and a section that explains the differences between this book and Robert's, as well as tips for those whose organizations still use Robert's. The book updates old-fashioned language like, "I move the previous question" with the more understandable "I move to close debate". There's a handy table inside each cover to help a member attending a meeting or a presider with proposing and handling motions. If you can convince your orgaization to use this manual instead of Robert's, I say go for it. I find this manual much easier to use and more in line with what people expect to be the procedures for having meetings. The book is much more readable than Robert's and tends to explain the basic principles a little better.
It simplifies and modernizes parliamentary authority, making it more accessible to more people. The Standard Code is a better parliamentary authority then Robert's. Dump your RONR and get this work.
The book is up-to-date, addressing contemporary and often-encountered situations such as holding meetings and elections via the telephone or Internet. It deals with all the situations that my clubs have encountered. There are chapters to help you prepare documents (like bylaws and financial records) that won't be in conflict with legal and parliamentary procedures down the line. As it should, it covers all the formal business of holding a productive and respectful meeting. There's even a section that helps explain some of the arcane procedures in Robert's Rules.
Someone has realized that, because a group might need parliamentary procedures, it does not need the granularity required by The Parliament of England.The Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure is understandable, comprehensive, logical, refined, and efficient. The "Often-Asked Questions" section covers many common situations and eliminates the need to look through the chapters for most answers. As a bonus, it serves as a resource to those trying to form an organization. I'm grateful to have found this gem. If you've always feared having to pull out the ol' Robert's Rules of Order because it was too detailed and complex for the casual social organizations in which you participated, help is here.
But it also includes procedures that facilitate business for the less formal organization or club.Necessary jargon is defined in a glossary. It explains the hierarchy of documents that govern an organization.
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