What is the definition of "quorum" in a meeting context?

The term "quorum" refers specifically to the minimum number of members that must be present in order for a meeting to conduct its business legally and effectively. This concept is essential in organizational settings as it ensures that decisions made during the meeting represent the group's consensus rather than the opinion of a small, potentially unrepresentative fraction of the membership. Establishing a quorum helps facilitate meaningful participation and decision-making processes, promoting accountability and transparency.

In the context of meetings, having a clearly defined quorum helps avoid situations where decisions are made without sufficient representation or input from the broader group. This requirement can prevent undermining the legitimacy of the meeting's outcomes and ensures that motions or proposals can be properly deliberated and voted upon.