Validating Value & Embracing Change [VRC Foundations 4]

The museum sector faces a critical choice. While other industries increasingly embrace data for evidence-based decision-making, most museums continue to rely on traditional metrics that reveal little about their genuine impact. This isn't just about adopting new tools — it's about fundamentally changing how we validate and improve our work. Models pioneered in professional sports and refined by the digital gaming industry offer compelling examples of how systematic data analysis can drive continuous improvement. Yet few museums have developed the capabilities needed to implement these approaches. The result is a growing gap between our aspirations and our ability to demonstrate meaningful impact. In this final session of the Foundations series, we'll confront both the necessity and complexity of institutional transformation. Our discussion will examine practical approaches to data analytics while acknowledging the very real challenges museums face in becoming more evidence-driven organizations. Session Focus & Required ReadingOur discussion explores two interconnected chapters from my book, Leaning into Value: Becoming a User-Focused Museum: Chapter 7: Validating Value Here I outline specific data analytical approaches that museums can implement to better understand and support user needs. Drawing from successful models in other sectors, this chapter provides a practical roadmap for evidence-based decision-making. Chapter 8: Museums in Transition: Leaning into Value The final chapter acknowledges the complexity of institutional change while demonstrating how a user-centered, value realization approach can address multiple challenges simultaneously - from staff development to funding sustainability. Come prepared to discuss passages you found particularly relevant or challenging for your institution. - John Falk Session Structure1. Opening Reflection (10 minutes) 2. Small Group Discussion (15 minutes) 3. Challenge Synthesis (5 minutes) 4. Facilitated Discussion with Dr. Falk (45 minutes) 5. Closing (5 minutes) Participation & RegistrationParticipation is open to: • Learning Leaders from institutions enrolled in The Value Realization Collaborative • Staff from institutions enrolled as Organizational Members Not Yet Enrolled? Registration for the Value Realization Collaborative closes January 31, 2025. Institutions can choose: • Full Program (includes membership, events, coursework for learning leaders, and implementation support through November) or the Foundations Program (includes membership, February events, and coursework) — Registration • Organizational Members (event participation only for your staff)  — Registration About John FalkDr. John Falk is the Founder and CEO of the Institute for Learning Innovation and Emeritus Sea Grant Professor of Free-Choice Learning at Oregon State University. His research focuses on how cultural institutions support public wellbeing and learning. Dr. Falk's work is transforming how museums understand and validate their impact. How to Participate1. Complete the assigned reading before the session (If your copy of the book doesn’t arrive in time, let us know and we’ll send you a scan of the introduction and first two chapters.) 2. Join via the link in your calendar invitation 3. Come prepared to engage in focused discussion 4. Consider bringing specific examples from your institution This session will be recorded and edited to protect participant privacy. The recording will be made available in the MaP Insights space. Questions?Leave a comment below or email [email protected]