AOB meaning: AOB stands for “any other business.” It is the item at the end of a meeting agenda where attendees can raise topics that weren’t on the planned list. AOB is common in formal meetings, board meetings and team meetings, especially in the UK, and is used in many US organizations too.
What does AOB mean at work?
AOB is an open slot. After the planned agenda items are covered, the chair asks, “Is there any other business?” Anyone can then bring up a short update, question or announcement.
It is meant for small items, such as a reminder about a deadline, a quick question or news that came up after the agenda was sent. Big topics that need discussion or a decision usually belong on the main agenda of the next meeting.
In formal meetings, such as board or committee meetings, AOB items may need to be shared with the chair before the meeting. In casual team meetings, it’s often a free-for-all for the last few minutes.
You may also see AOCB (any other competent business), which is used in some formal settings, mainly in Scotland. In US offices, people often write “Open floor” or “Other items” instead.
Examples of AOB in agendas, emails and meetings
Agenda: “1. Q3 results 2. Hiring update 3. Office move 4. AOB”
Email: “If you have anything for AOB, please send it to me by noon so I can plan the time.”
Chair in meeting: “That covers the agenda. Any other business before we wrap up?”
Attendee: “One quick AOB item: the parking lot will be closed Friday.”
Minutes: “AOB: J. Lee reminded the team that timesheets are due Monday. No other business.”
AOB vs open floor vs parking lot
| Term | What it means | When it’s used |
|---|---|---|
| AOB | Short items not on the agenda | Last agenda item |
| Open floor | Time for anyone to speak or ask questions | Town halls, all-hands, team meetings |
| Parking lot | A list of off-topic ideas to handle later | Captured during the meeting, not discussed |
How to use AOB correctly
- Keep items short. Aim for one or two minutes each. If it needs more, ask to add it to the next agenda.
- Tell the chair in advance when you can. It helps them manage time and avoid surprises.
- Don’t spring big decisions in AOB. People who weren’t expecting the topic may not be prepared, and it can feel like an ambush.
- Record AOB in the minutes. Note who raised what, and any follow-up actions.
- Time-box it. Chairs can say “We have five minutes for AOB” to protect the end time.
Related terms
Browse more short forms in our Workplace Acronyms hub.
FAQ
What does AOB stand for?
AOB stands for any other business. It is the final item on many meeting agendas, used for topics that weren’t planned.
Where does AOB go on an agenda?
AOB is almost always the last item, right before the meeting closes or the next meeting date is confirmed.
Is AOB used in the US?
AOB is more common in the UK and Commonwealth countries, but many US organizations use it too. US teams also say “open floor” or “other business.”
What should not be raised under AOB?
Major decisions, sensitive personnel matters and topics that need preparation should not be raised under AOB. Ask for them to be added to a future agenda.
