Research Digest #2: January 2024
January 31, 2024
WHAT WE'VE DONE
Developed Initial ASO Typology Classification
While we continue to scrub our initial national list of ASOs (developed from data from the IRS, SMU Data Arts, and National Association of State Arts Agencies) our literature review and current data findings have helped us develop both a working definition of ASO and a typology classification.
"Arts service organizations are entities with a mission and/or programs that support, or are in service to, artists, arts workers and arts entities."
Each nonprofit organization that meets our definition of ASO is classified in four areas.
Over the course of the next few weeks we will continue to refine this definition to better capture who ASOs are.
Launched the ASO Advisory Cohort
We have engaged an advisory cohort that includes 14 ASO leaders and experts to guide the development of the research methodology and ensure that every aspect of the study is grounded in the experiences of the people leading and impacted by this work. When we met in December and January, the group provided invaluable feedback on the framing of the work, the universe of
ASOs to be studied and the lens through which we should organize data collection.
Take a moment to meet the ASO Advisory Cohort.
WHAT THE DATA SAYS
So far, we have found that the majority of ASOs are primarily focused on supporting and providing services to artists, arts workers and arts entities. About half are focused on visual arts and half are focused on performing arts. These ASOs are also developing and delivering a vast set of services to their constituencies. Services offered by the largest portions of ASOs include programming, training/education and networking, grants/funding and venue/performance space. A handful provide fiscal sponsorship, production support, legal support, and medical/health services.
WHAT'S NEXT?
Start Sectoral Interviews and Focus Groups
Interested in being interviewed or joining a focus group? Complete the interest form here by Monday February 5, 2024 or email us at admin@consultingadc.com to nominate someone you think we should consider.
Missed the first ASO research update? Visit December 2023's Research Digest #1 to learn more.
Know an ASO leader who would be interested in learning more about the research or participating? Spread the word by forwarding this message or invite them to visit www.consultingadc.com/asoresearch to learn more.
ADC Consulting is a fiscally sponsored project of IndieSpace. The first phase of Understanding Arts Service Organizations in a Changing Arts Ecosystem is made possible with the generous support of the Mellon Foundation. ADC Consulting is a grantee of the Mellon Foundation. The research, its process, and outcomes is not a commissioned project of the foundation and does not represent its views.
