3.4.1 Business planning processes

The repository shall have short- and long-term business planning processes in place to sustain the repository over time.

Supporting Text

This is necessary in order to ensure the viability of the repository over the period of time it has promised to provide access to its contents for its Designated Community.

Examples for Meeting the Requirement

Up-to-date, multi-year strategic, operating and/or business plans; audited annual financial statements; financial forecasts with multiple budget scenarios; contingency plans; market analysis.

Discussion

An annual business planning process is commonly accepted as the standard for most organizations.

Evidence Provided

APTrust’s Financial Sustainability and Business Planning document was approved by the APTrust Board in October 2021. See the APTrust policies page.

“Governing Board’s 2018 direction for APTrust” document adopted by the Board in December 2017 and publicly posted on the APTrust website includes goals related to business plans under “Section III: Document APTrust Value”.

It is also part of the job description of the Executive Director to manage and disseminate budget figures. See the APTrust Governance Manual for duties of the Executive Director and the role of the APTrust Board which includes business planning.

For additional information see APTrust’s Budget Reports.