The Digital Layer in the Museum Experience

Abstract

The role of digital technologies within the museum context continues to evolve. We have moved from ensuring a digital presence in exhibits to considering digital spaces equal to physical spaces. Now, content and message are driven by most appropriate presentation method. Sometimes, that method is either digital but often, the physical and digital method ologies can be tightly integrated to create a seamless experience. The “digital” is in service of a seamless museum experience. We refer to this as “the digital layer,” a digital experience that both sits independently of the physical experience and is designed to work along with the physical experience. It leverages many digital technologies (some seen by visitors while others unseen by visitors) that add to the visitor experience in a way that physical exhibits cannot. It tells a story, connects themes across the Museum, allows visitors to see what they could not otherwise see, all in service of a more impactful Museum experience that contributes to the Museum’s mission. This chapter explores how the American Museum of Natural History both thinks about the digital layer and practical applications in all areas of the museum experience and goal to communicating science.