Case Study: Western Michigan University Libraries transforms strategic planning with Envisio

Western Michigan University Libraries brings 50 staff into a shared strategy with Envisio

Western Michigan University Libraries faced the challenge of transforming their static, siloed strategic planning process, which was managed through manual Word documents and Excel spreadsheets. This infrequent and hierarchical approach made it difficult to maintain engagement and visibility, turning planning into a burdensome leadership exercise rather than a shared, ongoing process. The university sought a solution to bring its 50 staff members into a single, dynamic strategy, and they selected Envisio as their strategic planning platform.

By implementing Envisio, WMU Libraries digitized their entire planning process, gaining automated reporting, scheduled monthly updates, and complete visibility across all teams. This fostered a culture of shared ownership and transparent accountability, turning their plan into a living, staff-driven framework. The solution delivered measurable results, including the successful hosting of the Michigan DPLA Service Hub, the launch of a rotating student exhibit space, and the quadrupling of output for their Seed Library distribution. Envisio provided the structure and flexibility needed to manage inherent implementation tensions, breaking down silos and enabling the team to celebrate progress and advocate for resources effectively.

Western Michigan University Libraries