Third generation balanced scorecards for libraries

Abstract

Over a period of seventeen years the Balanced Scorecard has evolved from a performance measurement instrument to a key strategic management tool firmly entrenched in the business world and also used by many non-profit organizations. The article first sketches the key points in this history and how it has been used by the library sector. A case study is then described of a recent BSC implementation for the University of Pretoria Library Service’s Open Scholarship Programme. The conclusion is that the balanced scorecard and in particular its associated strategy map is a useful tool for translating, communicating and implementing strategy.