MUSERY
Project Snapshot
Role
Project timeline
Tools used
Design Challenge Statement
1. Design a museum space that welcomes and encourages diversity
2. Make individuals feel included during a museum visit
3. Address barriers to understanding and familiarity
4. Explore digital tools to create an inclusive and engaging solution
01 Research Methods
We conducted interviews with seven individuals aged 21–38 from diverse cultural, geographic, and ethnic backgrounds to understand their experiences and perceptions of museums. The conversations explored themes of belonging, positive and negative experiences, and suggestions for improving museum inclusivity.
Our research, combining personal experiences and secondary sources, highlights several barriers to museum engagement, including infrequent exhibit updates, high costs, and feelings of exclusion due to knowledge gaps or cultural/language barriers. To address these, fostering a sense of belonging through interactive, engaging experiences, inclusive language, and visible efforts to promote racial healing is essential. Incorporating elements like calming green tones and creating welcoming environments can further help museums establish themselves as inclusive spaces that support mental well-being and cultural understanding.
02 Mapping
To understand user pain points and needs, we utilized synthesis maps, including Empathy Maps, Journey Maps, and Ecosystem Maps. These tools allowed us to delve into users' emotions, behaviors, and motivations, chart their interactions with museums over time, and identify external factors influencing their experiences.
Findings
THEMES
· Detached or uninterested
· Desire for familiarity
PAIN POINTS
· Individual preferences
· High costs
PATTERNS
· Everyone wants personal connection
· Diversity and difference is not welcomed
OPPORTUNITIES
· Personalization to increase enjoyment
· Improve inclusivity of minorities
03 Framing
We use "How might we" statements to guide our problem-solving process by framing the challenges in a way that sparks creativity and innovation.
How might we use sensory stimulation (light, colors, sound) to create a welcoming and inclusive environment?
How might we address differences in culture and language to elicit feelings of belonging?
How might we create a sense of connection between guests and art?
How might we amplify diverse experiences and perspectives to create a sense of belonging?
Design Principle
Brainstorming & Ideation
We came up with multiple ways to enhance the museum experience. For instance, visitors can rank their interests via a QR code or form, then explore personalized exhibits using VR headsets. Navigation is tailored to their language and preferences. Groups are formed by arrival time to foster connection, and an interactive globe at the entrance celebrates global diversity by showcasing visitors’ shared backgrounds.
Prototyping
04 Digital Solution
However, achieving this in physical spaces can be resource-intensive and limited in scope. This realization led to the idea of MUSERY, a digital solution that leverages the power of technology to break down these barriers. MUSERY reimagines the way people experience art, offering a virtual space where diversity is celebrated, and understanding is enriched, making art accessible to everyone, everywhere.
Key Features
Curated Virtual Museums
Each museum within MUSERY is carefully designed to feature thematic collections, whether by era, culture, or artistic movement, offering users an enriching exploration of art.
Interactive Storytelling
Alongside every piece, detailed descriptions and engaging stories provide users with the context needed to form deeper connections with the art.
Diverse Accessibility Options
MUSERY accommodates users with varying needs, offering features like customizable text sizes, audio guides, and translations in multiple languages, ensuring everyone can fully experience the content.
