Why is it important to have a quorum in a meeting?

Having a quorum in a meeting is essential because it establishes the minimum number of members that must be present to conduct official business. This requirement safeguards the legitimacy of the group's decisions and ensures that any actions taken are representative of the majority of the members rather than just a few. When a quorum is present, it means that enough members have gathered to reflect the collective opinion of the organization, allowing for decisions—whether they be voting on motions, approving budgets, or other significant actions—to be made with authority and validity.

This ensures that outcomes are supported and believed to have the endorsement of the group's membership, promoting accountability and fairness in the organization's processes. Without a quorum, even if a vote occurs, the results may not accurately represent the will of the entire group, which could lead to discontent or disputes regarding the legitimacy of the outcomes.