Strategically aligning a mandala of competencies to advance a transformative vision

J Med Libr Assoc. 2013 Oct;101(4):261-7. doi: 10.3163/1536-5050.101.4.007.

Abstract

Objective: This paper offers insight into the processes that have shaped the Eskind Biomedical Library's (EBL's) strategic direction and its alignment to the institution's transformative vision.

Setting: The academic biomedical library has a notable track record for developing and pioneering roles for information professionals focused on a sophisticated level of information provision that draws from and fuels practice evolutions.

Strategy: The medical center's overall transformative vision informs the creation of a fully aligned library strategic plan designed to effectively contribute to the execution of key organizational goals. Annual goals reflect organizational priorities and contain quantifiable and measurable deliverables. Two strategic themes, facilitating genetic literacy and preserving community history, are described in detail to illustrate the concept of goal setting.

Conclusion: The strategic planning model reflects EBL's adaptation to the ever-changing needs of its organization. The paper provides a characterization of a workable model that can be replicated by other institutions.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Librarians
  • Libraries, Medical* / organization & administration
  • Organizational Objectives
  • Planning Techniques
  • Professional Competence*
  • Professional Role*
  • Program Development
  • Workforce