Thompson Reuters has released a mobile version of its virtual boardbook technology
Thomson Reuters’ BoardLink tool is now available via iPad app. The mobile version will have the same functionality as the desktop version but will allow for greater mobility and flexibility for the user. Corporate board members, corporate secretaries and advisers now have the ability to compile, manage and share board documents anywhere, anytime, with the protection of enterprise-level security.
‘Directors are a very mobile group and becoming more so. The iPad app allows them to access vital documents and information in a familiar and secure online environment while on the move,’ explains Kevin Ritchey, senior vice president of governance, transactions and legal risk at Thompson Reuters.
Regulatory changes and greater investor scrutiny are increasing demands on directors and as a result they require faster and more efficient access to information and improved ability to communicate with management and fellow board members. In response to this demand, BoardLink released the new functionality which will allow boards of directors and corporate secretaries will increase productivity, improve their ability to make informed decisions while out of the office, and help businesses meet compliance and regulatory obligations. ‘BoardLink is a critical communication tool and helps board members provide guidance around disclosure and key business decisions. BoardLink on the iPad will make this work more convenient and board members more productive,’ says Ritchey.
The iPad app will allow users to keep documents organized from one board to the next; organize documents for one or multiple committees on which they may be serving; help directors track board and committee meetings; and access timely, expert-authored headlines and articles about emerging business and legal trends from Reuters News. The delivery of outside news and information is an important feature, explains Ritchey, as directors often require information that is not contained in board books and company materials. Access to news and professional insights can help directors keep up to date with the latest trends and put things in context.
Ritchey explains that they chose iPad for the new tool because it contains all the functionality required to run the BoardLink product and to meet the needs of users. It is easy to expand on the offering and has excellent security which is of utmost importance to corporations. He notes, however, that it is likely the tool will become available on other products soon.
Several companies already use tablet technology for board materials and meetings but many restrict directors’ access to company premises or other official sites. This is changing however, as companies become more familiar with the offering. ‘This is a new value proposition for many boards and it will take some adjustment but we are seeing growing demand for both online and mobile versions of boardbook technology,’ concludes Ritchey.
The BoardLink iPad app is designed specifically for board members and corporate secretaries and is available free of charge to all current subscribers of BoardLink through the Apple App Store.
