1st Edition of the Barometer on Museum and Heritage Site Audiences

Workshop presented by the Gece Institut In 2017, at the SITEM trade fair, we presented the results of our qualitative and quantitative study “The Museum of Tomorrow”, commissioned by Universcience. More than 800 French respondents aged 18 and over—regular visitors to museums and heritage sites—shared their perceptions and expectations in terms of offerings, services, and innovation in cultural institutions. Main results of this study available here: 2017 Study – The Museum of Tomorrow: A Hybrid Museum? In 2020 and 2021, Gece published two new surveys measuring the evolution of online cultural practices in France during the COVID-19 lockdown. Main results available here: 2020 Study – New Cultural Practices in France During Lockdown 2021 Study – Cultural and Digital Practices in France One Year Into the Health Crisis In September 2021, the French Ministry of Culture released a study on French cultural practices after two years of crisis (conducted by Harris Interactive). Remote work, increased digital habits, and reduced income were identified as potential long-term factors in decreasing cultural attendance. However, no follow-up study has since confirmed or disproved these findings... This is why we are pleased to present the first edition of our Barometer on Museum and Heritage Site Audiences during this workshop. The survey was conducted with 1,000 people aged 18 and over, representative of the French population. Designed as a contributive tool for cultural professionals, this barometer may be expanded with additional topics, provided participating institutions contribute financially. This first edition addresses several key themes:

• What are the current in-person and online cultural practices of the French public, and how have they evolved (e.g., live performances, museum visits)?

• Are online practices (virtual tours, livestreamed talks, etc.) reaching new audiences? Are they replacing or complementing on-site visits? Can we do without them?
• How do the French find out about cultural outings and events? Which platforms and social media do they use?
• Since the health crisis, have the timing and methods of ticket purchasing changed?
• What are visitors' expectations in terms of services and offerings during museum and heritage site visits?

• Will the French public be back in 2023?

Speaker and Moderator:

• Olivier Allouard, Director, Gece