The American Alliance of Museums (AAM) has unveiled a new strategic plan up until 2020, which aims to build upon its recent success of a near 70 per cent increase in museum membership.

AAM has set out a number of new goals in its plan, including expanding thought leadership to inspire and influence innovation in the field and to help foster global exchange of museum practice.

The Alliance will also prioritise themes related to the financial sustainability of museums, promoting diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion in all aspects of museum structure and programming.

Finally, more emphasis will be placed on developing the next generation of museum leadership and strengthening museum governance through support for trustees.

The plan was developed over a period of 18 months, with AAM board member John Wetenhall leading a working group which gathered input from more than 500 AAM members and non-members via 30 formal listening sessions.

“This new plan focuses the Alliance on goals that advance our mission to champion museums and nurture excellence in partnership with our members and allies,” said Laura Lott, AAM president and CEO.

“Our vision is a world informed and enriched by thriving museums. We will emphasise topics our members strongly believe are vital to the future viability, relevance and sustainability of museums.”