Gaming and Museum (original) (raw)

The purpose of this research paper is to investigate the state of the art of gaming applications in museums in order to reach audience development and community engagement. After analysing the main challenges concerning the innovation of the museum sector, this review tries to build a theoretical framework linking changes in audiences, museum role, and strategies for visitor involvement to support cultural institutions in achieving their mission and maximizing value creation. The research methodology employs a qualitative exploratory multi-case study. The key concept that emerges from the study, is that the museum is comparing with a variety of audiences in constant evolution, with respect to which is necessary to identify correct and appropriate arrangements for dialogue, declining languages, and tools of mediation in keeping with museum dissemination objectives. Moreover, a museum, to be able to communicate in an appropriate way, must first know how to listen to all its visitors, even (or especially) those of a younger age, often not attracted by history and art but generally gamers who, if appropriately involved, could ultimately represent its visitors of the future. The study aims to be a tool for reflection for cultural institutions which want to revitalize their offering system.