Improving library performance : quantitative approaches to library planning

The use of analytical models and quantitative methods for both short and long-range problem solving offer library managers an excellent opportunity to improve and rationalize decision-making for strategic and organizational planning. The first step is to identify the problems confronting the library and understand its current capabilities. Several dimensions of planning-scope, time frame, nature of decision, and staff involvement must be considered in the development of a planning strategy. Recognizing these dimensions, planners will be able to focus on the critical issues and to apply the most appropriate quantitative and computational techniques. Critical issues that demand primary attention in the planning process include the information sistem needed to support strategic planning, the allocation of resources, the analytical approaches to understanding the library environment, the relationships of organizational processes and climate to effective planning, and the assessment of library performance. A comprehensive planning framework should approach the library as a complex dynamic sistem with interdependent relationships and changing characteristics. Utilization of decision models developed for libraries and computer applications, along with proper staff management, make efficient library planning possible