Libraries and information management organizations face daily challenges and it is often the lone responsibility of the management team or governing board to make difficult decisions and choices. The problem of making important decisions in isolation can often mean that those most affected by the decision, such as users and staff, feel alienated, underappreciated and uninvolved. The result can be a lowering of morale, inappropriate or underuse of services and failure of the activity or plan.

Whitmell & Associates believes decisions can be made and plans can be undertaken which will result in committment, a sense of ownership and improved organizational effectiveness by involving staff, boards, adminstration, and users and non-users in the process. Such involvement gives everyone a sense of ownership in the decisions made and strategies taken. This will, in turn, result in committment and responsibility from everyone to ensure success.

Using a unique and workable participation method Whitmell & Associates works with libraries and information management organizations to create plans and make decisions that will involve participants from both inside and outside of the organization. The results are positive and long-term.

Whitmell & Associates can assist in developing strategic plans, designing activities or new services, redeveloping current services, preparing succession and staffing plans, planning outreach and advocacy programs and building teams. The service is provided for both large and small groups and can involve community members, boards, users and non-users, staff and administration.

Whitmell & Associates can also assist in the development of partnerships between organizations, groups and associations.

Specific services include:

• development of strategic (short and long-term) plans
• development of activities and services
• organization and facilitation of board retreats and meetings (on-site and off-site)
• organization and facilitation of focus groups
• organization and facilitation of consensus-building, decision-making and problem-solving workshops
• development of professional and continuing education programmes and customized seminars