Author: Mairead O’Rourke, consultant, facilitator, and coach
This guide is intended for local authority museum managers and decision makers who may be considering alternative models of operation for their services. The guide has been written for Local Authority museums in Wales, with thanks to funding from Welsh Government, but will also be applicable to museums in other regions.
Over the last ten years there has been an increase in the number of museums moving to new models of operation across the UK. There is no single preferable model for operating museums. There are examples of thriving museums as independent trusts, shared services and fully within council operation. It is strong partnerships which are key to having a sustainable service.
Deciding to embark on a new model of operation requires time, financial investment and consideration of a wide range of factors. It is not a means of addressing immediate funding challenges. Successful museums are driven by a clarity of vision, purpose and priorities. They are also dependent on robust financial acumen, a skilled and dedicated team and commitment to the communities they serve.
Whether you have already embarked on the journey of becoming a trust or are being asked to consider the implications of changing governance model for your museum, this guide offers clear and practical advice on navigating the process. It includes information on different models of operation, insights into key success factors and it draws on case studies to provide lessons learned from others who have been through the process. There are a variety of different models of operation to which museums may transfer to and this guide offers an insight into the options available with a specific focus on the process of moving to trust.
This guide does not endorse any specific type of operating model over another. Rather, it encourages best practice in the process of considering options to ensure the museum service remains sustainable. Each museum service will need to consider what is the best course to follow within its own context.
The guide includes the following sections:
- Models of operation
- The Process of change
- Key success factors
- Lessons learned.
This guide highlights existing guidance and key considerations for exploring alternative approaches for delivery. The guide is available in English or Welsh at the links below:
Download Local Authority museums considering different operating models (opens in a new tab) Download different operating models in Welsh (opens in a new tab)