The following questions apply to all of the quality indicators and should be addressed at the beginning of the Self-Evaluation Report. This approach embeds discussion of vision and strategy in each quality indicator (rather than being a separate one as was the case in the past).
These three overarching questions form the starting point of the examination of each of the quality indicators, but evidence supporting these aspects can also be embedded in various other places in the report when addressing specific issues.
How do we plan and manage high-quality people-centred services?
This should consider:
- How the vision and strategy is developed in an inclusive fashion and how it facilitates the delivery of local and national priorities;
- How the vision and strategy are articulated to all (both internally and externally);
- How staff contribute to its development and implementation;
- How leadership, management and staff development (including how recruitment and retention) are fostered) and ensure appropriate staff for service delivery.
How do we work in partnership to create more resilient, fairer and healthier communities?
This should consider:
- How the vision and strategy is developed in an inclusive fashion and how it facilitates the delivery of local and national priorities;
- How the vision and strategy are articulated to all (both internally and externally);
- How staff contribute to its development and implementation;
- How leadership, management and staff development (including how recruitment and retention) are fostered) and ensure appropriate staff for service delivery.
How do we use qualitative and quantitative evidence to support continuous improvement?
This should consider:
- What performance monitoring is in place and how it informs continuous service improvement;
- How budget allocations and financial metrics match service priorities;
- How the library service delivers Best Value
- How evidence-based decision making is implemented.
Having considered the evidence in respect of both the overarching questions and the specific quality indicator the final element is to reflect on the outcomes and impacts. The following questions should be addressed for each quality indicator in the concluding sections of the Self-Evaluation Report:
- What difference does this make to individuals, communities and society?
- How do we communicate to ensure the voice of the library is heard by key stakeholders?
- How do we ensure that our service provision is sustainable?
