Effective Management of Museums in the 1990s

A survey of thirty-three museums of various kinds in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States sought to identify the features distinguishing the more effective organizations as assessed by independent experts. Staff at each museum responded to a questionnaire about features common to all organizations as well as some particular to museums. Teamwork, a concern for quality, and an emphasis on public programming are common to effective museums. Executive leadership champions a vision, models appropriate behavior, and works together effectively. Board members use their skills and knowledge to advance the organization's mission. There is a concern for quality, shared goals, good communication, respect for the contribution of others, attention to training, strategic allocation of resources, and an integrated, flexible, and responsive structure. Public programming emphasizes strategic approaches to achieving positive outcomes for visitors, including provision of a variety of learning strategies.