NEMO Working Group explored digitalisation, audience engagement, and visitor research in Oslo’s museums

From 4-6 June 2024, the NEMO Working Group Digital Transformation gathered in Oslo, Norway, for an insightful study visit. The meeting focused on key aspects of digitalisation, audience engagement, and visitor research within the museum sector, offering participants an opportunity to learn, discuss, and share expertise.

The study visit brought together museum professionals and experts to explore how digital technologies are transforming the museum experience in Oslo. Participants visited several museums that had successfully integrated cutting-edge digital tools to enhance visitor engagement. The visit delved into innovative practices such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) exhibits, audience journey mapping, and strategies for both digital and onsite participation.

One of the core goals of the visit was to foster meaningful discussions on how museums can leverage technology to deepen audience connections and broaden community engagement. Topics of focus included community-building strategies, methods to increase digital participation, and how museums are measuring the impact of these tools on visitor engagement—both online and in person.

Participants got to visit the Nasjonalmuseet, Museum of Science and Technology, Intercultural Museum, Munch Museum, Kon Tiki Museum and Fram Museum. In addition to guided tours, the visits also included discussions with museum staff and digital experts. These conversations provided valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges posed by digital transformation in the museum world. Participants learnt from good practice examples and gained practical insights into how museums are adapting to meet the evolving needs of modern audiences through technology.

The Oslo study visit served as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, where members of the Working Group Digital Transformation engaged with real-world examples of digital innovation in museums. By the end of the visit, participants left with new ideas, strategies, and a deeper understanding of how digital tools can enhance visitor experiences and audience research in the museum sector

NEMO’s Working Groups provide an opportunity for members of NEMO to get connected, learn and share experiences through organised study visits and events. The groups also inform the wider museum sector by publishing studies, recommendations and reports. At the moment NEMO has three active Working Groups: