The Microcosm Group (MG) was formed to recommend strategies and tactics to increase the organizational flexibility and agility of the Library in responding to its priorities to achieve its Mission and Vision. Included in the definition of agility is the ability to respond quickly and energetically to situations that could retard the Library’s progress on various fronts. Agility ensures that the Library has choices, captures opportunities, and makes the system work for it rather than “the other way around.” Flexibility implies embracing changing requirements and new challenges. Combined, they represent an attitude characterized as approachable, energetic, and innovative and behaviors reflecting confidence, knowledge, and open-mindedness.

The MG Report lists a broad array of objectives and actions. Listed below are objectives connected to the immediate recommended actions and time frames.

Objectives and Immediate Action Plan Recommendations

Objective: Achieve total organizational participation in the understanding of the Library’s Vision, Mission and Values statements.
Action Item: Performed an organization scan in December. Hold a large group meeting in January 2003 to engage no less than twenty percent of the Library staff in the finalization of the Vision, Mission and Values statements.

Objective: Foster an ongoing learning environment that underscores and ensures the importance of teamwork, open communication, and customer service throughout the Yale University Library.
Action Item: The concept of the Learning Plan will be introduced in February-April 2003. Each staff member develops and implements a learning plan with his/her manager. Managers will be trained in the Learning Plan process.

Objective: Ensure that a persistent focus on high quality service is the standard for the Yale University Library.
Action Item: The Service Quality Improvement Council will empower two improvement teams with solving a library service quality problem and host a symposium to improve managers' understanding and awareness of service quality improvement trends.

Objective: Increase participation and involvement of Library staff in planning, problem solving, and communication beginning January 2003 and increasing throughout the next five years.
Action Item: Hold a large group meeting to increase two-way communication and share strategic planning information. Managers, especially LMC members, will call meetings to inform staff and discuss the Library’s new vision of shared power and high involvement.

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This file last modified 09/04/03
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