Winning the Game: Adopting Strategies for Organizational Success

By Valerie Allen, Office of Scientific and Technical Information, U.S. Department of Energy

Rick Luce, Vice-Provost and Director of Libraries at Emory University, discussed keys for information organizations to maximize potential in an SLA conference session presented by the Government Information Division and sponsored by Thomson Scientific.

The characteristics of a "thriving information organization" were presented, and strategies and metrics used to increase organizational success were identified.  First, it is important to challenge thinking. Secondly, you must do an environmental scan to see how the organization is demonstrating value, how it is using collaboration, how best practices are being implemented and how effective any outsourcing has been.

Two overriding themes to consider are the demonstration of value to end-users and the attainment of long-term success through a systematic approach.

Biological evolution may be used as a model in the evolution of complex systems, such as a library or information center.  Lessons of adaptive behavior include:

• Successful adaptors see things with fresh eyes, think differently
• Successful adaptors quickly differentiate themselves from their closest rivals
• Instinct plays a crucial role and flexibility is key
• Adaptation is never over

Successful organizations do something others don't do or that others have great difficulty with.  These organizations also often do something very, very well.  Once a niche is carved out, consider with whom to partner to expand that niche.

Strategically, look at SWOT: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats.  Then plan scenarios based on these regular reviews. User feedback is important, and not just in terms of metrics.  You must also look at what users say and how they behave in the environment.  Improvement efforts should focus on areas of high importance but low satisfaction.