Redefining the MET’s Success

How does a museum define success in the 21st century? Answers may vary, but they all must include some aspect of a digital presence. For the MET, that means trying to expand its 19th century mission to “connect people to creativity, knowledge, and ideas” into the digital age.

The MET has a dedication to sharing its vast collection with a diverse audience. With the emergence of a “virtual” museum visit, that possible audience constitutes a much broader scope of people than just the physical visitors walking through the museum’s entrance. The digital team at the MET is working to provide engagement opportunities with their digital and social media presence. Through multiple different departmental Twitter accounts the MET can reach people with niche interests and then build off of that initial connection. Partnering with Wikipedia also allows the MET to (somewhat) control their branding and message in a resource seen by many more people than would otherwise visit the MET’s main website.

The museum recognizes that, although different from a physical visit, virtual experiences allow visitors to benefit from the museum’s programming and resources. Adapting to the changing landscape that digital media offers creates an opportunity for the MET to engage with the public and inspire “creativity, knowledge and ideas” like never before.