Evaluation strategies in the cultural sector: the case of the Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery in Glasgow

Abstract

The paper examines museum evaluation activities in their social and political context and advocates the need for evaluation strategies in the cultural sector. It analyses the case of the Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery in Glasgow, which commissioned the design of such a strategy as part of its current project for the redevelopment of displays and visitor facilities. The Strategy covered the evaluation of the new displays, of orientation provision, of the new and improved facilities, as well as information to inform future policies and plans. The paper examines methodological issues related to the design of the evaluation strategy and to evaluation work at the Museum in general. It also examines the objectives set by the specific project and the relevant actions suggested by the strategy in order to meet these. Finally, it critically examines the role and effectiveness of evaluation in this context.