Local community leaders should examine the principles involved in making committees an effective and efficient tool in group operations. A committee assists the parent organization in developing programs, carrying out business, establishing policies, executing affairs, and evaluating an organization's effectiveness. Committees have many social, educational, political, and financial advantages. The two types of committees--standing and special--use checks and balances to assess committee effectiveness and need. The purpose and responsibilities of the committee and selection of qualified applicants are two organizational considerations. Committees may have advisory or decision-making functions. Selection of a chairperson and committee members should be done with care; the qualities and responsibilities should be defined. The composition, size, and selection of a committee are important considerations. Mistakes in appointing committees are made because appointing authorities have relied on traditional selection procedures. Effective committee operation is achieved by reaching consensus through problem-solving techniques. (The following are included: 11 references; a committee instruction/information sheet; committee assignment sheet; the 24-inch rule for chairpersons; and individual member committee worthiness checklist.) (NLA)