Facilitate Continuos Improvement

Facilitate continuous improvement.

By Stephanie Dinh and Anthony Burazer.

Lead continuous improvement systems and processes.

Today we live in a world of exponential change and diversity. A world where were connecting faster, in more ways, with more people than ever before. Where inclusive thinking and new world learning is driving an era of unprecedented ideas and vision. We know greatness happens when you connect great minds, connect cultures, disciplines, communities and connect to the world. Only then can you change the way you think, change the way problems are solved, and evolve.

The University of Wollongong library Acquisitions Team established an ideal model for best practice in relation to the acquisition and provision of prescribed texts and recommended readings for library clients through benchmarking with three other Australian academic libraries. The approaches integral to their focus on texts and recommended readings were examined in detail, with opportunities to their own continuous improvement defined. The staff’s major aim was improvement of collection relevance and development concerning acquisition of University of Wollongong curriculum texts and recommended readings through benchmarking.

In practical terms this meant redesigning the texts and recommended readings process from selection to shelf ready access for their clients. Specifically, we examined components such as: approach taken; selection; ordering; accessioning, copy cataloguing and end processing; access provided for clients; and funds used.

UOW experience of benchmarking is focused more on methods of approach to a process, rather than only measurement of the process itself. It is important to note that the scope for benefits from benchmarking can be far reaching.

Why benchmark?

• To provide a reference point for current approaches

• To ensure that the standards UOW aim for are set at an appropriate level

• To convince they can do better

• To assist as...