Understanding the social impact of museums

NMDC believes that museums make a real difference to people’s lives. What does that mean and how might we investigate it?  What is the nature of the impact that museums can have on the individual, and how does this play out in communities, societies and even nations?

In March 2008, the National Museum Directors Conference, led by Caroline Collier (Tate) and Alec Coles (Tyne and Wear Museums) brought together practitioners and academics to consider a potential programme of work exploring the social impact of museums. Participants suggested that there is already a considerable amount of work – both applied and more theoretical - being done on social impact in the cultural sector.  So it was decided that a sensible and pragmatic first step in exploring the social impact of museums would be to work with partners to review and consider current social impact research and initiatives in the museums with a view to improving understanding of the social impact of museums and enhancing the effectiveness of museums and their funders in meeting their objectives.

For more information please contact the NMDC Staff Team.