Museums make a big impact on their local communities. They document historical events and serve as must-see tourist destinations, bringing in valuable income that supports other areas of culture and education. They also inspire the next generation of thinkers, introducing students to arts, music, history and information in ways that are more effective than textbooks. But museums are not only about providing information and entertainment, they also play a critical role in shaping cultural identities.
For example, when Napoleon I conquered Europe in his campaign to unite the nation, he seized treasures from all over the continent and put them in what he called “museums.” These were intended to stir up nationalistic fervor and promote the concept of an empire.
Today’s museums are much more diverse and complex than those of the past. Whether it’s the Metropolitan Museum of Art, with its magnificent collection of ancient and modern artwork, or the world-famous Vatican museums, which feature Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces, each has an incredibly rich and varied collection that tells a wide range of stories.
The new definition of museum is a non-profit, permanent institution in the service of society and its development, open to the public, that acquires, conserves, researches, communicates and exhibits the tangible and intangible heritage of humanity and its environment for the purposes of education, study, enjoyment and inspiration. It democratizes spaces for critical dialogue, fosters inclusivity and polyphony, and works with communities to collect, research, preserve and display their heritage, thereby contributing to human dignity, social justice, global equality and planetary sustainability.
A great museum experience is one that engages the visitor and takes them on a journey through time, space and ideas. There are many ways to accomplish this, including using audio and video content to bring historical artifacts alive and making use of large digital displays for interactive learning. It is important to find the right balance between educational and entertaining content that is appropriate for each audience.
Museums can also enhance their visitor experience by incorporating elements of gamification, interactive kiosks and mobile apps that allow visitors to explore their collections at their own pace. Incorporating these features into the museum design helps to drive engagement and attract a wide range of visitors, including those groups that may be harder to reach, like millennials.
By creating an engaging museum experience, a museum can attract a broad audience and build its reputation as a must-see destination for locals and travelers alike. This will create a sustainable business model that can be replicated by other museums around the world.
