Best Practices for
Zoom Meetings By Justin Schmid
Many organizations were forced to move online due to the pandemic, and for many, Zoom became the default online platform. However, Zoom presents some technical challenges to meet the parliamentary demands for proper deliberative assemblies.
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National Parliamentarian • Spring 2021
This article provides advice on best practices for running meetings on the Zoom platform in accordance with Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, (12th ed.) (RONR). Note that Zoom constantly updates their software, so new features may have been added or changed since this article was written. Always make sure to update your Zoom application before a meeting. Authorization in Bylaws Before moving your meeting over to Zoom, check your bylaws or governing documents to see if they permit electronic meetings. RONR (12th ed.) 9:30. In some cases, legislation or emergency measures may permit electronic meetings. Robert’s Rules of Order provides sample bylaw provisions and rules in the Appendix. The sample provided for Scenario A: Use of Full-Featured Internet Meeting Services would be appropriate for Zoom meetings. Chairing Versus Hosting a Zoom Meeting While it might seem to make sense that the chair, as presiding officer, will also be the host of the Zoom meeting, it is better that someone else take on those responsibilities. Just as the chair of a meeting wouldn’t be responsible for signing in members and handling other administrative matters during the
