| dc.description.abstract | In the 21st century, museums have embraced technological advancements and digital applications, adopting a hybrid model of physical and virtual operations. They now offer high-resolution digital archives for public viewing, and technologies such as VR/AR and 360° virtual reality allow audiences to overcome geographical barriers and experience museum collections and famous artworks from afar. However, the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 had significant social effects, impacting the global economy and causing the closure or restriction of all public facilities, including museums dedicated to cultural preservation and education. Consequently, museums faced severe operational challenges as all ticketed visits were halted.
Fortunately, the development of digital archives, online exhibitions, and interactive online learning resources has become a crucial support for museum operations during the pandemic. During this period, museums increased their focus on digital operations, enhancing digital resources such as opening more digital archives and offering interactive digital experiences. Many museums also launched numerous online exhibitions and expanded digital community engagement, mitigating the loss for audiences who could not visit in person due to the pandemic. Although the museum economy was unprecedentedly impacted by the pandemic, the derivative applications of digital archives, such as licensed applications and value-added products, helped alleviate economic difficulties. As the pandemic subsides, the value of digital operations will be re-evaluated.
This study employs qualitative research methods, using comparative analysis to examine the digital archival operations of four museums: the British Museum in the UK, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the USA, the Louvre in France, and the National Palace Museum in Taiwan. It explores the current status of these museums, their digital archival operations, commercial revenue, and visitor numbers, understanding the operational models emerging from physical and digital integration. Digital platforms allow audiences to visit museums remotely, while those seeking to experience the physical grandeur of artifacts visit in person. The sharing of digital archival resources expands the audience base, promoting physical museums. Additionally, digital marketing and online derivative product sales have generated significant revenue for museums. | en_US |