Improving visitor care in heritage attractions

Abstract

Large numbers of people never visit museums because they either perceive them as having no connection with their lives or are intimidated by the way in which collections are presented and, despite notable exceptions, many museums are loath to cater to the general public. Those who feel they will learn something often do not thanks to remote presentation which fails to take account of newer media. The author argues that museums must innovate to make their displays accessible and stimulating by trying harder to understand the layperson's position, by encouraging active participation and making more use of moving images, by providing better quality facilities and by allowing greater possibilities for social interaction.