20 · Survey Results: Survey Questions and Responses
order to solve particular problems.
Experimental development is systematic work, drawing on existing knowledge gained from research and practical experience,
that is directed to producing new materials, products and devices to installing new processes, systems and services or to
improving substantially those already produced or installed.
Below are some examples of research and development activities that pertain to libraries. All or any of these examples are types of
innovation and R&D activities.
Basic Research Applied Research Experimental Development
Developing a method for performing
transaction log analysis to understand
the use of a discovery system.
Examination of transaction logs in order
to understand the use of a discovery
system in order to add records to the
system.
The development of a program that
supplies users with optional choices
when null searches are realized.
Observational analysis of user behavior
in the Learning Commons.
Observational analysis of user behavior
in the Learning Commons in order to
determine whether new furniture is
required.
Based upon the observational analysis,
a space plan is developed with different
furniture options.
Examination of faculty methods for
storing, sharing, and curating their
research.
Examination of faculty methods for
storing, sharing, and curating their
research in order to provide repository
services.
Implementation and assessment of a
repository service.
FRAMEWORK FOR INNOVATION AND R&D
1. Does your library have a strategic plan or other planning document that includes specific
references to innovation or R&D activities as defined in the introduction? Check the applicable
choices. N=47
Yes, that references innovation 29 62%
Yes, that references R&D 16 34%
No 16 34%
If yes, please identify the document(s). N=29
Twenty-nine respondents identified a library strategic plan or similar document. See the Representative Documents and
Selected Resources sections for examples of these documents.
Comments N=18
Absent such planning documents, we have nevertheless developed some cool, original systems in recent years.
Actions identified in the library strategic plan include developing “a suite of programs, technology, tools, and spaces
dedicated to research and digital scholarship needs,” as well as “goals, supports, and funding for a library research
program.”
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