Andrew Hales and Heidi Schlumpf from New Zealand Maritime Museum, Hui Te Ananui a Tangaroa, present at NDF25.

Abstract:

Heidi and Andrew developed a way of working with small, mostly volunteer-run organisations, to develop their digital capability.

The project was a New Zealand first, and possibly a global first, and a huge success, applying a methodology that needs to be shared. It could be adapted and applied to any project hoping to help smaller GLAMIR orgs.

The approach was non-colonial: everything was done with them, not to them.

Small organisations know digitisation will help them run better exhibitions, elevate their education programs, and give their communities, which they are tightly connected to, an unprecedented level of access. But starting digitisation requires a specialist level of knowledge and equipment, and it can be very disruptive initially.

The NZMM Digi Hub team of 4 embedded in each org for up to 3 months, learned and listened to what was needed, supplied equipment, developed tailored solutions to fit, and ensured everyone was involved in the process.

Warkworth and Districts Museum, Charlotte Museum and Howick Historical Village now have impressive and sustainable digital capabilities, beyond what some larger orgs are capable of, and a long list of other orgs in Auckland all gained knowledge or skills directly and indirectly from the project.