Quality Framework

Introduction to the Quality Framework

Throughout 2006, the Scottish Arts Council consulted widely with the arts sector to deliver a Quality Framework for the sector. The Quality Framework  launched in March 2007 is now being practically used by funded organisations and the Scottish Arts Council to continually improve what we do, both artistically and operationally. It will also assist us in the transition to Creative Scotland.

Designed as a self-assessment tool, it will encourage innovation and creativity in the organisations we fund, foster excellence and drive up standards and ensure that we respond to the needs and aspirations of audiences and participants.

The Framework provides information and guidance on key areas where quality is of paramount importance:

• the artistic leadership and vision that creates high quality programmes of work
• public engagement
• accountability - governance, finance, management and compliance

Quality Framework Document (pdf)

Use of the Quality Framework by the Scottish Arts Council 

Internally, we have worked closely with the objectives of the Quality Framework to form the basis of our successful Scotland: Creative Nation, Cultural Summit held on 25-27 February 2008 at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre.

The conference explored, discussed and debated key issues in the context of the development of Creative Scotland and core themes  included: The Impact of the Arts Innovation and new Artistic Practices Engagement and Participation

Operationally, the implementation of the Quality Framework impacts every aspect of the work we do, from the design of our funding agreements to its function as a cornerstone of the Flexible funding application process.

We intend that the processes and outputs that the guide promotes will in future:

• Act as a clear set of expectations of performance
• Inform Scottish Arts Council funding decisions (within the context of strategic priorities)
• Will be necessary, but not sufficient in itself, to secure Scottish Arts Council funding
• Evidence and demonstrate cumulative value for public fund

Using the Quality Framework web pages

Within the Quality Framework publication, we identified Areas of Activity and loosely described core requirements. These web pages will build on the publication, by describing in more detail areas of good practice, signposting people to other related sites and gathering case studies from our funded organisations, so that we can share different approaches.

In the future, we will be looking at having a separate sign-in area for Foundation Organisations to allow them to access documentation we hold on them in their files.