The Contribution of Technology-Based Heritage Interpretation to the Visitor Satisfaction in Museums

The tradition of heritage interpretation is moving away from purely conservational and educational goals to an entertainment- and experience-oriented interpretative provision. New technologies are gaining prominence in museums to enhance visitors’ mindfulness, subsequent learning outcomes and satisfaction. Extant research literature reflects technology-based heritage interpretation; however, such studies implement predetermined outputs which have never been tested by the demand side. This paper seeks to assess technology-mediated heritage interpretation, merging both theory from the museums management and customer satisfaction literatures, and applying Importance-Performance Analysis. Results reveal that new technology does not represent a substitute for other interpretative applications. Its appropriate use in those museums with a traditional interpretative layout enhances displays´ multisensory provision and visitors´ perceived interactivity. The use of technology is more apprec...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2007
• Where: ENTER
• Authors: Sofía Reino, Nicole Mitsche, Andrew J. Frew
• Keywords: ENTER 2007, Heritage Interpretation, Information Retrieval, Museums, Technology-based Heritage Interpretation