personalised access to information via the user’s preferred form and device. How does this drive for new experiences sit with the International Council of Museums’ (ICOM) definition of a museum as a ‘not-for-profit, per- manent institution in the service of society that researches, collects, conserves, interprets, and
exhibits tangible and intangible heritage’? I would argue it sits comfortably, but the chal- lenge must be recognised. Can a museum be true to its purpose while ensuring financially sustainability and environmental and social responsibility, and maintaining community sup- port? While this is complex, seeking hand-outs
MUSEUMS AND INNOVATION: AN OXYMORON?
Museums tell stories of the past but cannot survive without embracing the future. Change and innovation can make this possible.
Dr Jim Thompson
M useums are often considered institutions of the past. Many have been around a long time, and they often focus on local stories. It could be argued that they reflect times that are long gone, and therefore less relevant to today, yet they are more popular than ever. In Australia the larger state and federally funded museums attract more than one million visitors per year, and these numbers are growing. Whether old or new, museums must appeal to today’s discerning and increasingly demanding audiences to stay relevant, and that demands innovation and evolution. The best example of the impetus for change is the digital world. There are now ‘museums’ which are almost completely digital, as well as temporary digital exhibitions and shows. Whether they are considered a real museum is irrelevant. They provide a product that can travel, change, and be tailored for different audiences, meeting individual demands for
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