implementation of QR codes to access cultural heritage
About this good practice
During the lockdown, the cultural offer had to respond to population demands in the online space and, in turn, contribute to making a difficult moment more bearable.
Restrictions on activities and visits to museums during the pandemic have meant using new strategies to counteract the decline in visitor influx.
The Museu Valencià de la Festa (Algemesí, València, Spain) promoted the use of QR codes to access cultural heritage and visit some local famous monuments. Through the QR codes, people could enjoy a virtual tour of the basilica of Sant Jaume Apòstol using a mobile phone. The virtual tour included 15 information points with digital content: photos, videos...
Visitors could also contemplate panoramic images. These QR codes could also be used to access an audio guide inside the local museum. The audio guide system was accessible through a QR code to virtually explore the most famous tourist spots in the city: the Museu Valencià de la Festa and the historic center.
Resources needed
Digital apps, smartphones, Internet connection, previous knowledge. 1 person (technician - museum, full time, 1 week of dedication to the project. Basic digital skills - website navigation). 1 computer, with free online software for QR generator + printer. Content previously updated on 3rd websites.
Evidence of success
This kind of online campaign for the dissemination of cultural heritage had some benefits. Thanks to it, the online visits to the museum tripled during the confinement. Virtual visits by citizens from many towns in the three provinces (València, Castellon, and Alicante) also increased. The museum received many virtual visits from citizens from all over the region.
Social networks have become a strong link between institutions and their audiences.
Potential for learning or transfer
Cultural managers could reply the good practice in regions where some digital content (videos, information files, etc) has been previously produced.
Minimum requirements: online content (website, third party website, youtube channel...). These types of activities are not expensive and can be used by many institutions because they only need an Internet connection and the implementation of QR codes (see resources needed).
They provide an attractive and simple way to share and disseminate local heritage and museum contents using new technologies and new platforms.
Virtual tours and audio-guides systems are very attractive resources that bring heritage closer to all audiences.
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.