Theory, research and practice in library management 2 : the balanced product portfolio

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to bring together theory, research and practice to inform library management. Design/methodology/approach – Explores the library context using CD-ROM based services. Analyzes the product life cycle and portfolio matrix concepts. Findings – Most library and information services function in an entirely different context so there needs to be caution when extrapolating between sectors is not straightforward. Despite these challenges, the ideas and concepts have resonances that can be used by those managing library and information services. Originality/value – Reflects on how the concepts of product life cycle and portfolio matrix can be applied in library management.