THE COMMON SERVICE MODEL FOR STATE MUSEUM ASSOCIATIONS
The Common Service Model (CSM) for state museum associations (SMAs) addresses best practices across all areas of museum association administration: governance, financial stability, member services, communications and advocacy. The CSM can help all SMAs operate more fully and inclusively in their state.
The Coalition of State Museum Associations (COSMA) developed the CSM through collaboration with the entire SMA community.
Funded by a 2022 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities, COSMA created a comprehensive written survey and held two virtual focus group convenings in which all 45 SMAs participated. These provided fundamental information about how SMAs function and their needs, from which the CSM was developed.There are actions that are not listed in the model that are foundational to the operation of each SMA. It is expected that they will be completed before any further activities or programs are initiated.
These include:
- Incorporate and file Bylaws and other documents as required by state law
- Apply for 501c status and create and maintain records required by the IRS 501c statutes.
- File required annual paperwork to state and Federal government to maintain this nonprofit status.
- Create basic financial systems, including a business bank account.
In addition to the activities listed in the CSM, there will be others that your organization undertakes or deems important. Each state has unique membership and challenges. Individualized programming and services should come from direct member need.
There is also no expectation that every SMA will take on every one of the activities in each category. The CSM is intended to provide a universe of options from which each SMA should choose what is appropriate for their state.
The Common Service Model (CSM) has been made possible in part by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in the Common Service Model do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.