In memoriam: Performance indicators and time analysis in the bibliographic records section of Aston University Library & Information Services Available to Purchase

Describes the development of performance indicators in the bibliographic records section since 1988. The timeliness of the section’s output was perceived to be more relevant from the user’s point of view than the number of books catalogued, so two key indicators were monitored: the length of time which books spend on the cataloguing shelves and the size of the backlog. The statistics in graphical form to assist planning the section’s work. Time analysis was introduced more recently, both to provide a more meaningful context for the performance indicators and also to put a cost on the section’s activities in the light of current trends towards greater financial accountability and the development of service‐level agreements. Discusses some problems inherent in the use of performance indicators and suggests greater integration between sections.