Types of interpretation and museum displays

Interpretation should be continually evolving and respond to audiences’ needs, opportunities and new stories. The principles of good interpretation are the same regardless of the media used, but there are some considerations for each type of media.

Object displays with labels

Objects displays need to be appealing and eye catching, with consideration of the height of the objects, making sure that they are visible for children as well as wheelchair users and people of different heights. Information alongside the objects should be clear and easy to read, it should be obvious which object or group it refers to and should be concise (30-50 words). It is not necessary to include the accession number (it could be added to the reverse for reference) and, unless there is an explanation about what it is, accession numbers mystify many visitors. Principles about text writing apply to object labels (see section 8). If space is tight in the showcase, placing small numbers alongside objects means information could be made available outside the showcase.

Digital labels and QR codes

Digital labels or information panels provide information via touchscreens or e-readers, which can be updated, and can provide a further depth of information without using more space. Some are linked to an IT system and can be changed regularly, others work on standalone devices, but all need to be properly maintained. These are useful when you want to offer visitors the option to
delve deeper into a subject by providing more details via an online platform, or if you also want to include other interpretive elements.

QR codes have been around for a long time but have become better used recently due to increased use of personal devices to access information during the pandemic, and because modern phones have a QR reader within the camera. A QR code image can be added to graphic panels or showcases, which directs the user to a website with the relevant information.

Apps or digital information accessed via visitor’s own devices

Apps usually require the user to download the app onto their phone, which isn’t always practical, but once downloaded onto their phone it can provide access to information related to a whole site and can include games and activities, as well as historic information. They work well across an area or connected sites and can help visitors with orientation.

There are other technologies that can provide information via visitors’ devices without requiring them to download an app. This includes iBeacon technology, which provides internet access to a discrete website and information. This works well in locations where the Wi-Fi and phone signal is poor and can be designed to alert visitors to particular locations or objects. It is easier for visitors to use and does not require the commitment of downloading an app, but once the visitors leave the site, they can’t access the information. This can be useful for encouraging people to visit the site to engage with the interpretation in-person rather than them being able to access stories remotely. Apps and iBeacons are an excellent way to provide visitors with more in-depth information as well as activities and games.

AV presentations

Audio content, such as oral histories or vox pop comments, can be provided via audio boxes, or through headsets or single cup headphones. Audio content needs to be short and easy to understand, less than 2 minutes is ideal. Seating alongside audio and AV
presentations allows visitors to rest while they listen. Audio content can be bilingual with options for language choice or if there is a screen, subtitles can provide other language content and content for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Audio Visual presentations can require interaction, such as choice of content or language, or can be played at set times on a large screen. This can make a great introduction to a gallery or museum or can tell a story using film, images and animation. Subtitles are helpful for many visitors (and can be multi-lingual). The length of the AV presentation should be considered carefully depending on whether
visitors will be seated or stood along with questions like, ‘will entry be timed or free flow’? With any audio content, you need to consider background noise and provide access to a hearing loop system.

Digital interactive exhibits

Screens provide digital interactive exhibits. These offer visitors a choice of content, can include games and activities, as well as film,
audio and photographic content, or the chance to take a closer look at museum objects.

Hands on interactive exhibits

Museums have long recognised the importance of encouraging visitors to touch and have a go. Interactive exhibits range from tactile replica or real objects, smelly boxes, games with lift up flaps to access information and mechanical exhibits that help to explain principles. Interactive site models can help visitors understand the context of a site or the complexity of a factory or mill. Room sets can become more interactive if people are allowed to touch and sit in the space. Hands on exhibits can be used to tell part of the story as visitors push buttons or turn handles more of the story is revealed. Historic games help to explore what life was like in the past, and imaginative snakes and ladders games can describe the ups and downs of an industry or story.

Graphic panels

Information can be presented on carefully designed panels. It is important to limit the amount of written information – most of us can only hold about seven ideas at once so consider carefully what is to be included. Text should be concise (more on this shortly) and the position of the text and font type and size should be checked for accessibility.

In person interpretation 

First person interpretation can connect visitors to a subject, it can be tailored to meet specific needs and the presenters are able to answer questions. The tour is only as good as the guide, and it requires enough people (staff or volunteers) to deliver it. Costumed interpretation will be based around a script and characters will tell a story, giving a particular perspective. Demonstrations can provide an engaging way of connecting to visitors.

External panels or viewpoints

Information outside the building is a good place to provide opening times and contact details, but is also an opportunity for interpretation, especially when the building is closed, presenting the opportunity to offer information about a historic building or location. External panels need to be weatherproof and are usually made from duralite mounted onto a wall or within a robust stand. These will be more expensive than internal panels.

Website and leaflets

Interpretation begins before visitors arrive. Your website probably has some information about the collections, heritage and story that is told. This needs to be part of the strategic approach and should be carefully considered. It is also a good place to direct people after their visit for more information.

Branding and marketing

Marketing is another form of communication with your audience, so it is worth considering what you say through marketing. Does the message reflect your values and the interpretive principles of the museum? It can be nice to give visitors a taste of the story we
are telling through the marketing. Branding can crossover with interpretation, and often requires a Big Idea and this can link into, or be similar to, the interpretive Big Idea.

Click here for the next section on research>>

Click here to go back to the introduction and contents page>>