The changing shape of museums in an increasingly digital world

In less than two decades web 2.0 technologies have triggered a paradigm shift within museums, and seen visitors become active participants, rather than passive observers. Web 2.0 technologies, and the wider digital culture it has spawned has not only changed how we communicate museum practice, but also museum practice itself. These technologies have catalysed the development and implementation of an eclectic range of new modes of museum practice from social media to 3D Printing, to museums opening their own incubator hubs for new creative businesses. Whilst these changes may seem rapid and revolutionary, this chapter argues that the museum is a robust, reflective and adaptive institution, a flowing river rather than stagnant lake. The core function of museums has always been to collect and care for objects, but the ethos underpinning that has evolved from the original cabinets of curiosities, ‘look don’t touch’ mentality, to one of education, public engagement and entertainment.