Colleagues would often use words like clarity, authenticity and mutual respect to describe the actual outcomes of more transparent conduct. So do we. Yet, there is one more advantage that we would like to add to the list.

It’s not just what you can learn in the moment that makes transparency valuable. Rather, it’s what you come to know, over time, about yourself and others.

When it’s part of the organization’s communications culture, transparency helps organizations know, and therefore appreciate better, where their members stand on key topics. It helps leaders determine how and when to engage with grantees and associates so there can be an honest exchange of information that leads to a shared “community perspective.” It affords insight as to why key decisions get made so that everyone can respect the rationale, even if they disagree with the direction.

These are some of the ways that transparency contributes to “knowing,” which helps us advance The Russell Family Foundation’s mission with confidence and credibility. Most everyone is familiar with the phrase that knowledge is power; but we have found that “knowing” is even more empowering.

Find out more about the benefits of transparency in organizations by  Richard Russell and Richard Woo at NCFP