In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), General Counsels (GCs) face a pivotal challenge in briefing their boards. While AI encompasses a broad spectrum of technologies, risks, and opportunities, the primary stumbling block isn't a lack of expertise—it’s the approach to communication that leaves boards overwhelmed and unclear on actionable steps.

Every quarter, as regulatory frameworks around AI shift and technology advances, GCs attempt to condense this complex information into presentations and memos. However, the traditional methods employed often lead to information overload, leaving board members more confused than informed. This isn’t just a missed opportunity—it's a strategic misstep that can misalign the company’s governance and oversight capabilities.

The crux of the issue lies in the delivery. Legal teams frequently initiate discussions with dense, complex details, expecting board members to distill insights independently. This method is counterproductive. What boards require is not a barrage of data but a coherent narrative that answers three critical questions succinctly: What is happening with AI? Why does it matter? What should we do next?

This is where the "What, So What, Now What" model proves invaluable. By structuring updates around these questions, GCs can provide clarity and relevance, aligning their thoroughness with the board's need for strategic focus and clear directives. This model not only streamlines communication but also ensures that discussions are rooted in business impact rather than technical intricacies.

Furthermore, AI shouldn’t be framed as just another compliance issue but as a pivotal element influencing the company’s strategic direction, risk exposure, and competitive standing. This perspective shift requires GCs to distill AI’s complexities into governance-focused dialogues that empower boards to make informed decisions without getting bogged down in unnecessary details.

For GCs, adopting this structured communication approach means moving away from verbose updates and towards providing actionable insights that enhance board governance. It transforms standard legal updates into strategic governance moments, reinforcing the GC’s role as not just a legal advisor but a pivotal strategic communicator.

In essence, the effectiveness of AI communication with boards doesn’t hinge on the volume of information provided but on the clarity and relevance of the insights shared. As AI continues to reshape business landscapes, the GCs who master this communication strategy will not only boost their credibility but also become indispensable strategic partners in boardrooms.

For those looking to refine their approach, resources like "What, So What, Now What: Effectively Communicating With Your Board About Transformative Technology Such as Artificial Intelligence" offer detailed guidance. This tool is designed to help GCs craft briefings that are clear, concise, and impactful, ensuring that every board meeting is a step toward more informed and effective governance.