Verge Launches Program to Aid U.S. Museums in Achieving Long-Term Sustainability

What's Happening?

The human-resources, talent, and recruiting agency Verge has introduced a new membership program aimed at helping U.S. museums and art organizations achieve long-term sustainability. This initiative comes at a time when these institutions face challenges such as reduced government funding and disengagement from younger collectors. The program includes a proprietary employee survey called the Workplace Advancement Instrument (WAI), which assesses organizational health by gathering employee feedback on communication, compensation, retention, and psychological safety. The results are used to provide workshops and training to address identified issues. Early adopters of the program include the Dia Art Foundation and the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation.

Why It's Important?

This initiative is significant as it addresses the pressing need for museums to adapt to changing demographics and workplace expectations. By focusing on internal culture and employee satisfaction, the program aims to retain next-generation talent, which is crucial for the sustainability of these institutions. The program also highlights the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace, preparing organizations for a future where the U.S. talent pool will be more diverse. This approach not only helps museums improve their internal operations but also enhances their appeal to potential employees who value a supportive and inclusive work environment.

What's Next?

As the program gains traction, more museums and art organizations are expected to join, seeking to improve their organizational culture and employee satisfaction. The results of the WAI surveys will likely influence hiring practices and workplace policies, potentially leading to broader changes in the museum sector. Additionally, the program's focus on diversity and inclusion may prompt other industries to adopt similar introspective approaches to address workforce challenges.

Beyond the Headlines

The program's emphasis on introspection and organizational health could lead to a cultural shift within the museum sector, where employee well-being and satisfaction become central to operational strategies. This shift may also influence public perception of museums as progressive and inclusive institutions, potentially increasing visitor engagement and support.