In addition to the detailed outline of meeting minutes made by woolynn and others above, I would like to add that the minutes are not an exact transcription of what each individual had said in the meeting, rather a comprehensive summary of the main points that were discussed. It should, however, show ownership of major ideas and decisions made as the company moves forward. Without these minutes, the participants must rely on the memory of the other participants. This is not a good plan fro a wide variety of reasons.

Lastly, it is also imperative that a good meeting minute scribe distribute the meeting minutes within 24 hours of the meeting taking place. This ensures a quick follow up on all main points that were discussed in the meeting and enforces/ reminds the goals and objectives set. In addition, it also serves as a quick, yet comprehensive summary of the meeting for all those essential personal to read if they could not attend the actual meeting. The absent individuals should be able to read the minutes in a reasonable amount of time and be just as informed about the companies present/ future direction as if they had actually sat for the meeting.