Last year the staff of the Chandler Museum suggested to the board that we embark on a StEPs assessment. Staff was aware that there are some things we do well, and others that we could definitely improve upon. With the help of members of our governing board, members of the historical society (which functions as a fundraising organization rather than a governing body) and the entire museum staff, the museum will embark on its first StEPs assessment in 2014.
The board suggested we start with collections because “we seem to do that well and it should be an easy place to start.” I can just picture all of you collections people rolling your eyes and snickering. But that was the direction the board wanted to go, so that’s where we’re going to start.
What are we going to discover? I don’t know. But it’s going to be an interesting learning process and I am looking forward to the work ahead. I plan to post regular updates on the process as we move along and include the good, the bad, and the ugly for your reading enjoyment. Wish us luck!
Have any of you participated in the StEPs program? What was your experience? Do you have any words of wisdom to impart? Feel free to share in the comment section!
