The aim of my thesis research was to understand the current state of museums, the challenges that they face, and the process of the visitor experience. Through observations and brainstorming sessions, I generated an understanding of the current context and a range of ideas for improvement that spanned across the “5E’s” of experience (entice, enter, engage, exit, extend). These insights highlighted opportunities to build greater context for and engagement with museum visitors.
As a result of my research, I developed a concept for a research-based service called Museum Innovation, which supports cultural institutions in identifying and holistically addressing the challenges of visitor engagement and context. It empowers directors and administrators by providing the research, articulation of opportunities, co-design facilitation, and connection to the technical competencies required to implement changes in their institutions. The concept is founded on a collection of guiding principles resulting from combined qualitative and quantitative research on the museum landscape and visitor experience.
