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April 25, 2000
Over the past few years, many changes have taken place in our environment which strongly affect the work we do. There have been many incremental changes in the way in which we acquire, catalog, preserve and maintain library materials and the catalog. Recent staffing changes both within TSD and UM Libraries as a whole will bring new and different ideas of how we should accomplish our goals. And of course, the new Integrated Library System will have a deep affect on how we do our work. We are in an environment where we can expect continuing change due to evolving technology as well as changing library goals and objectives. To meet the challenges of this dynamic environment, we need to take the opportunity to review and evaluate the activities for which the Division is responsible.
How shall we do this? In order to obtain usable results, we will need a well thought out strategy. Below is a general overview of how we might proceed:
Step one is to identify each of the program activities that are performed in the Division. These activities will need to be gathered into logical groups to be studied. The TSD Council and TSSAC will be tasked to draft a list of activities and group them. Cross departmental and cross divisional working groups will be created to study the activities. The information that is needed includes: How do we do it? How many do we do? How long does it take? Why do we do it? Who uses the product or by-product of this activity? Are there gaps in services or activities that TSD ought to fill?
Step two will be to evaluate the results of the study. Evaluation of data is tricky! To develop a reasonable framework in which to review our activities, it will be important to articulate and agree upon an overall goal(s) of what we think is important. TSD Council agrees that one of our goals should be to provide the best customer service possible. With that basic concept in mind, we propose that the organization, workflow and procedures be reviewed with the following values in mind:
- Quality service to our primary clientele. Our primary clientele include: students, faculty, University departments, staff within TSD as well as staff throughout the library and the scholarly community;
- Effective and efficient use of all resources. This includes not only library resources such as staff, equipment and supplies, but also includes contractor and vendor services which we use to provide service to our clientele;
- Staff who continuously learn, evaluate, and participate in an changing work environment.
Reviewing the work that we do will be a very ambitious project! All TSD staff members are expected to participate in the program. I realize that the project will take time and effort to complete. If we are to make the most out of this research, your support and cooperation will be needed.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts and suggestions at the TSD ALL STAFF MEETING. Thank you!
Carlen Ruschoff
Director of Technical Services
