Leveraging emerging technologies in Maltese museums : a strategy to promote tourism

Abstract

This thesis shall explore the potential of leveraging emerging technologies in Maltese museums as a strategy to improve visitor engagement, whilst promoting tourism. It would examine how technologies such as Augmented and Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, amongst others, can transform the museum experience via interactivity and immersion, with an added layer of personalisation. Details to be explored include the ways in which emerging technologies may be integrated into this crucial sector, such as personalised tours, virtual exhibitions and integrating smart displays, for instance. It shall also explore how these local museums may use these technologies to reach global audiences and provide a more accessible, educational, and entertaining cultural experience. This research considers how technological innovations may impact the educational aspect of museum visits, and how this contributes to the increased attaining of engagement and customer satisfaction in said setting, from a managerial point of view. This research will also consider the potential benefits, alongside respective challenges, of an adoption of these technologies in local museums. Factors to consider include cost and infrastructure, amongst others. Via a thorough examination of these factors, this thesis aims to derive an understanding of the way emerging technologies may be successfully implemented into local museums on a local level.