The Challenge of Measuring Performance in Museums: an exploratory study in creating a holistic set of key performance indicators

Abstract

This paper examines the nature of performance measurement in museums and reports on an exploratory study to create a holistic set of key performance indicators. It approaches the issue from a management perspective. It introduces the KBAC Matrix based on the core activities of museums, i.e., knowledge, business, audiences, and collections and reports on an exploratory study with six museums in England. It reflects on the nature of the challenge facing those attempting to measure the performance of museums and the benefits of a holistic set of meaningful indicators.