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

  • Conference paper
Information and Communication Technologies in Tourism 2007

Abstract

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 appreciated in traditional museums than in those with live interpretation.

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Reino, S., Mitsche, N., Frew, A.J. (2007). The Contribution of Technology-Based Heritage Interpretation to the Visitor Satisfaction in Museums. In: Sigala, M., Mich, L., Murphy, J. (eds) Information and Communication Technologies in Tourism 2007. Springer, Vienna. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-211-69566-1_32

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-211-69566-1_32

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Vienna

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-211-69564-7

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-211-69566-1

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