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Thesis
The Operating Model in an Arts Organization: A Case Study of Small Nonprofit Theatre Companies
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Jun 2022
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00001198
Abstract
The operating models provide a framework to define the structure and style of an organization by representing the six elements (Organizational Structure, Value Delivery Chains, Locations, Information System, Management System, and Supplies) of the organization's operations. By identifying and analyzing an organization's operating model, arts managers can know better how these operating model elements combine to successfully deliver value to their audiences and donors. However, the operating model in nonprofit organizations has yet to be studied fully. This thesis explores the operating models of three small, nonprofit theatre companies in Philadelphia. This study seeks to identify each element of the operating model in these organizations and gives a descriptive explanation of each organization's operating model. This study applies a qualitative method and is descriptive in nature. Techniques of collecting data include interviews and document review. Interviews were conducted with the principal staff members of three professional, small theatre companies based in Philadelphia: Azuka Theatre, Curio Theatre, and EgoPo Classic Theater. Data analysis is performed by explanatory reconstruction of interview transcripts. These efforts will collectively answer the research question: What does the operating model look like in a professional, small, nonprofit theatre company based in Philadelphia? Overall, the findings reveal that the three theatres have formulated and developed the six elements (Organizational Structure, Value Delivery Chains, Locations, Information System, Management System, and Suppliers) of the Operating Model Canvas, and many similarities exist between some elements. However, each theatre company has unique operating practices which make them different from others. COVID-19 has had impacts on the three theatres programmatically and financially. The subsequent upheaval about racial inequity is impacting the social climate and attracting the attention of many arts organizations. This increasing awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion has influenced the theatres' operating practices.
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Details
- Title
- The Operating Model in an Arts Organization
- Creators
- Yuanjun Yao
- Contributors
- Pamela Yau (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- 63 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Arts Administration; Arts and Entertainment Enterprise; Drexel University; Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design
- Other Identifier
- 991018388911304721