OUT WEST AND DOWN UNDER: EXPLORING GEOGRAPHIES OF STAFF DEVELOPMENT Janelle Zauha, Professor Montana State University Libraries Garry Potter, Manager Library Staff Resources Victoria University Library CAVAL October 16, 2009
INTRODUCTION Two maps of staff development terrain, offering alternative paths and different vistas Do common problems = common solutions? What can we learn from each other?
Map I: VICTORIA UNIVERSITY
Multi-sector university (Higher Ed and Further/Vocational education) Approx 50,000 students 11 campuses & libraries 124 staff in positions Approx 20 casual student assistants
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THE VU 2002 – recognized strategic importance of embedding continuous staff development Created portfolio of staff development (initially Librarian eventually Manager), staff development committee 2003 – methodology for developing staff skills - commitment, currency & relevance; capability, performance & results (Brinkerhoff); recruiting, retaining & leading (Usherwood)
Methodology & accompanying staff development plan linked to staff performance and development plans, Library operational plan, & University strategic plan Key competencies matrix – core skills mapped to positions 2008 – Workforce plan – framework for library staff; strategies to create a sustainable and flexible, skilled workforce, “one library” service oriented approach, adaptive to change & technology
WORKFORCE PLAN 7 strategies Structure Position descriptions & titles Recruitment Staff development Students as employees Extended opening hours Cultural awareness
CHALLENGES WE FACED
THE FUTURE Evaluate – are we getting it right? plan, review & do Library review process – how will this inform future staff development needs of the Library ? Environmental scans Technology futures Research Teaching & learning Inform what we look like – right people, in the right place, at the right time, with the right skills
Map 2: MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES
Bozeman
MSU Campus
Renne Library
33 Classified Staff (Para-professional) 33 Classified Staff (Para-professional)
17 Faculty Librarians
Challenges We Face Boundaries Salary Equity M O T I V A T I O N COMMUNICATION Budget
Seeking Solutions eadership ducation bility otential
Progress Discovering talent Building relationships Sharing ideas Understanding each other Creating shared vision
THE FUTURE Persist Be patient Seek more input Be flexible Measure Recognize
CONCLUSIONS: LEARNING FROM EACH OTHER Requires consistent attention & planning Time & resources Staff have to be engaged One model does not suit all Different needs, goals & objectives
Commitment from management to support embedded processes Share knowledge and experience Return on investment Monitor, measure, document & evaluate
No matter where you go, there you are!