The Contribution of Design Thinking to Museum Digital Transformation in Post-Pandemic Times

Abstract

With this article, I would like to present a critical examination of my position on the role of design in museums by focusing on the influence of human-centred design practices (also known as design thinking) in the context of digital transformation in museums, a transformation that has been accelerated by two years of the COVID-19 pandemic and its restrictions. The article aims to offer a set of propositions about the contribution of design thinking (DT) to the main challenges museums are facing in a moment of digital transformation. A rigorous evaluation of the value of DT on museums is beyond the scope of this article, however, there is a sufficient body of academic and professional literature to hypothesise the contribution of DT in addressing digital transformation challenges. My argumentation is supported by evidence from the literature review in the museum sector and academia. Firstly, through a critical examination of facts (museum initiatives during the pandemic) and a critical reflection of existing literature, I will identify a set of key museum challenges. Secondly, by critically looking at design literature, I will suggest a set of propositions by discussing the contribution of DT practices in addressing those challenges.

Virtual space created by a digital platform in the post epidemic context: The case of Greek museums

“…This was a crucial time for the museum, as it was able to maintain its operations and continue to engage with the public despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The museum’s online presence was crucial in this regard, as it enabled the museum to reach a wider audience and continue to fulfill its role as a cultural institution [ 24 ].…”

Museums and the Post-Digital: Revisiting Challenges in the Digital Transformation of Museums

“…It enables cultural heritage institutions to contribute to the transformation of a sector powered by digital and a Europe powered by culture." [4] This is seen as the contemporary condition of museums, as museums have entered their post-digital era where digital technologies have acquired a "normative presence" [5] (p. 2): (a) in the institution's operations, such as collection management, conservation, communication with audiences through social media and websites, educational activities, exhibitions, and ticketing; (b) in the ways museum professionals understand their relationships with their audiences; and (c) in how visitors experience cultural heritage [6][7][8][9][10][11]. It is important to note that the use and typology of technology vary greatly between institutions due to their specific organisational, infrastructural, and policy contexts that condition their digital capacity [12][13][14].…”