Introduction

The hard work for this step was done in the last chapter when you identified your conclusions. We will spend most of this chapter focusing on how you can actually put those conclusions into action and ensure your data and findings are put to good use.

The main topics we will cover in this chapter are:

• • making plans and executing developments (page 69)

• • sharing findings (page 70)

• • trial and review (page 74).

What is the action step?

The action step is simply putting in place what is required to do the things you identified in your conclusions. If your analysis was identifying what’s happening, and your conclusion was deciding what you needed to do about it, your action is then actually doing it. This might seem like an easy chapter. Alas, there are many factors which can make action difficult and barriers can arise. With this chapter I’m hoping to help you be aware of them and have some tools to get around them.

Let's start with the biggest question: why do we need to decide and execute actions after completing the process of collecting and analysing data? While it is nice to collect data and understand your service better, it is nothing more than nice if we don't commit ourselves to doing something with the data and enhanced understanding. In many ways data collection without any plan to action in some form wastes staff resources. You need to collect some data over a long period before you can draw on it to make any actions, and you may need other data (e.g. from SCONUL, the Society of College, National and University Libraries) for wider statistical inputs. Equally, after studying data you have collected you may conclude that no action needs to be taken at this time – this is still good use of the data (and is in itself still an action – choosing to remain in a certain approach for a period of time). Be vigilant against falling into the trap of collecting data, knowing that your data is telling you there is need for change and then not making any changes.

Actioning is making a conscious decision and plan about what to do with the information you now have about your service and the changes needed to make to improve or maintain this service.