Programstyret

Programstyret, literally the program board, is a governance body in many Norwegian organizations charged with planning and curating the organization’s program. It typically focuses on content selection, scheduling, and ensuring that programming aligns with the institution’s mission and values.

The responsibilities of a programstyret include evaluating program proposals, selecting content, designing schedules, maintaining program quality, and coordinating with artistic directors, staff, or external partners. It often has oversight of the budget allocated to programming and may set criteria for eligibility, licensing, and risk management related to programming activities.

Composition and appointment vary by organization but commonly involve volunteers or elected members. A chair or spokesperson leads meetings. Members may represent different stakeholder groups, such as staff, audience representatives, partner organizations, or subject-mpecific expertise. Terms are usually defined in the organization’s statutes and appointment can be made by a general assembly, the board, or management.

Meetings are held regularly, with formal agendas, voting procedures, and minutes. A quorum is typically required for valid decisions. Decisions are usually made by majority, with provisions for conflict of interest and transparency.

Relation to other bodies also varies. In some organizations, the programstyret advises the management or supervisory board and has autonomous decision-making within its remit; in others it acts more as a consultative body. Examples of its work include selecting films or concerts, approving season lineups, negotiating licenses, and producing program notes.

Terminology varies; related terms include programkomité and programstyre, reflecting differences in organizational statutes. See also governance, cultural programming, and organizational committees.