What is the primary function of meeting minutes?

The primary function of meeting minutes is to show what was done, not what was said. Meeting minutes serve as an official record of the actions taken during a meeting, including decisions made, votes cast, and tasks assigned. This focus on outcomes rather than verbatim dialogue ensures that the documentation is concise and serves its purpose of informing those who were not present and providing a clear record for future reference.

By concentrating on the actions and decisions, meeting minutes help to track progress and accountability, ensuring that team members understand what is expected of them moving forward. Since the minutes encapsulate the essence of the meeting rather than the full discussions, they facilitate a more efficient review and provide clarity about the meeting’s purpose and results.