This post was originally published by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

This historical report was produced by the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) for HUD in collaboration with the Office of Public and Indian Housing. The guidebook was intended to teach the leaders of Housing Authorities (HAs) the elements needed to run a well-managed HA. The report is divided into 11 chapters, including maintenance; information technology,; and capital fund, modernization, and development. The authors end the report with a list of truisms, which are shortened below:

• Be involved and committed
• Develop vision and using that vision, build a mission and goals with the participation of all stakeholders
• Establish a training program that develops all staff both in required job knowledge and in personal growth
• Empower employees by involving them in decision-making and planning
• Empower your residents for the same reasons
• Conduct random quality-control audits or inspections
• Connect with other HAs, HUD, other organizations, and professionals in this and related fields
• The primary mission of HAs is to provide affordable housing. Don’t lose sight of it!