Does the term “operational planning” make you feel confused, overwhelmed, or disengaged? Traditionally, operational plans are developed through a top-down approach, with management setting goals that support the strategic plan. Beginning the summer of 2024, a large library division turned this approach on its head. By reimagining operational planning as a more intentional, collaborative, and inclusive process, they invited input and feedback from all division employees, regardless of position. Currently in its second full cycle, this presentation will describe the iterative process that enabled the incorporation of diverse perspectives and drew on the management team's expertise. The result? An operational plan that empowers employees at every level to take on leadership roles, contribute to decision-making, and collaborate across departments. This poster presents a multi-year case study of that iterative process. Now in its second year, with a third year of data available by the time of this presentation, this work demonstrates that collaborative operational planning is not a one-time experiment but a sustainable, evolving practice.
