The Loop Method

 

  1. Listen & Discover


Understand the lived experience, values, needs and ambitions of the community and stakeholders.

Activities include:

  • Community conversations

  • Collection walk-throughs

  • Values mapping

  • Assets inventory (ABCD approach)

2. Identify Strengths and Opportunities

Find out what’s already working, what’s underused, and what can grow.

Focus areas:

  • Current collection strengths

  • Gaps and risks

  • Cultural significance

  • Early wins

  • Potential partnerships & funding routes

3. Co-create development pathways

Work collaboratively to design practical and strategic next steps using Design Thinking.

Outputs include:

  • Prioritised roadmap

  • Cataloguing or digitisation framework

  • Engagement plan

  • Volunteer/Trustee capacity plan

  • Funding strategy

Develop systems, workflows and capabilities that strengthen long-term resilience.

Examples:

  • Workflow design

  • Documentation

  • Governance structures

  • Training and mentoring

  • Grant-writing support

  • Licensing & income streams

4. Build Sustainable Foundations

Transform the archive from a passive collection into a living resource.

Activities include:

  • Exhibitions

  • Storytelling

  • Online experiences

  • Community workshops

  • Educational materials

  • Partnerships with cultural organisations

5. Activate Cultural Impact

Evaluation and adjustment ensure the archive evolves sustainably.

  • Review milestones

  • Track engagement

  • Develop new opportunities

  • Plan for scale

  • Sustain community involvement

6. Iterate, Refine and Grow