Sayeed Choudhury, Martha Kyrillidou, Fred Heath, Colleen Cook, Bettina Koeper and Reinhold Decker
The work described in this paper aims to reflect the natural evolution of longstanding dialogue between the Association of Research Libraries (ARL), Johns Hopkins University…
Abstract
Purpose
The work described in this paper aims to reflect the natural evolution of longstanding dialogue between the Association of Research Libraries (ARL), Johns Hopkins University (JHU), and Bielefeld University.
Design/ methodology/approach
This study looks at how each institution has combined library and assessment expertise and developed evaluation methodologies that emphasize different, but interrelated aspects of library services.
Findings
The resulting tools may be viewed as an integrated decision support system (DSS) that can offer librarians and library administrators a comprehensive framework for choosing appropriate tools, methodologies, and resources for evaluation of both existing and future library services.
Originality/value
This paper provides an excellent introduction and overview for practitioners new to the topics described.
Details
Keywords
Antonia Hermelbracht and Bettina Koeper
The purpose of this article is to provide a description of the project ProSeBiCA, carried out in order to adapt the marketing research tool conjoint analysis for the development…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this article is to provide a description of the project ProSeBiCA, carried out in order to adapt the marketing research tool conjoint analysis for the development of future library services. The paper describes the methodical approach, and provides an overview of the results gained by several user surveys.
Design/methodology/approach
The methodical approach includes the use of adaptive conjoint analysis (ACA) and choice‐based conjoint analysis (CBC).
Findings
Conjoint analysis is an appropriate tool for the strategic development of library services. It provides detailed results by identifying users' preferences towards concrete services, and allows to deduce general statements about future trends for library services.
Research limitations/implications
Future plans include cooperation with the Sheridan Libraries at Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, Maryland), the Association of Research Libraries (ARL), and other interested partners in order to adapt the ProSeBiCA framework for US libraries and to integrate techniques used by the partners (CAPM, LibQUAL+TM). The extension of conjoint analysis to the evaluation of services for a fee will be an additional area of research.
Practical implications
Service orientation in libraries can be based on a systematic approach. Depending on local circumstances, interested libraries can improve their service orientation in different ways, either by discussing the results of the analysis made in this project or by using the Conjoint Analysis questionnaire for a survey in their institutions.
Originality/value
The paper describes the current status and provides the latest results of ProSeBiCA. It is of interest to library managers and marketing researchers.
Details
Keywords
To share with readers the issues of an international conference.Design/methodology/approach – A brief review of the conference held in Germany, 7‐9 February 2006.
Abstract
Purpose
To share with readers the issues of an international conference.Design/methodology/approach – A brief review of the conference held in Germany, 7‐9 February 2006.
Findings
The conference focused on the future of information services in the digital world. Speakers from eight countries discussed joint strategies and transnational networks for academic libraries, innovative information services, and future challenges for academic libraries. Three hands‐on workshops reported on current projects in the fields of long‐term archiving, institutional repositories and marketing approaches in the library context.
Originality/value
Will be of interest to library and information professionals.