Exhibition Design and Installation
Expert-defined terms from the Advanced Certificate in Museum Project Management course at Stanmore School of Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
**Accessibility** #
**Accessibility**
Accessibility in exhibition design refers to the design of exhibits and museum s… #
This includes considering the needs of visitors with visual, auditory, cognitive, and mobility impairments. Accessible design elements may include ramps, accessible restrooms, large print labels, audio descriptions, and American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation.
**American Sign Language (ASL)** #
**American Sign Language (ASL)**
ASL is a visual #
manual language used by Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in the United States and some parts of Canada. It is a unique language with its own grammar and syntax, distinct from English. ASL interpreters are often hired to provide access to museum exhibitions and programs for Deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors.
**Artifact** #
**Artifact**
An artifact is a physical object that has historical, cultural, or scientific si… #
Artifacts are often collected and displayed in museums to tell stories and provide insights into different cultures, time periods, and scientific phenomena.
**Audio Description** #
**Audio Description**
Audio description is a narration service that provides a detailed verbal descrip… #
It is often used to provide access to cultural experiences for people who are blind or have low vision. In museums, audio description may be provided through headsets or through a mobile app.
**Branding** #
**Branding**
Branding refers to the development of a unique visual and messaging identity for… #
This may include a logo, color palette, typography, and messaging strategy. Effective branding helps to establish a clear identity and build recognition for the exhibition or museum.
**Case Design** #
**Case Design**
Case design refers to the design and construction of display cases for museum ob… #
Case design must take into account factors such as security, environmental control, and visibility. The design should also complement the overall exhibition design and provide a visually appealing and informative display.
**Collection Management** #
**Collection Management**
Collection management refers to the care and preservation of museum objects, as… #
Collection management practices may include object handling, storage, conservation, registration, and loan administration.
**Design Development** #
**Design Development**
Design development is the process of refining and expanding upon the initial con… #
During design development, the exhibition design team creates detailed drawings, models, and specifications for the exhibition, including the selection of materials, finishes, and lighting.
**Didactics** #
**Didactics**
Didactics refers to the educational content and strategies used in museum exhibi… #
This may include text panels, interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and educational programs. Effective didactics engage visitors and provide opportunities for learning and exploration.
**Environmental Graphics** #
**Environmental Graphics**
Environmental graphics are visual elements that are integrated into the built en… #
In museums, environmental graphics can help to orient visitors, provide information, and enhance the overall exhibition design.
**Exhibition Design** #
**Exhibition Design**
Exhibition design refers to the process of planning, creating, and installing mu… #
Exhibition design encompasses a wide range of elements, including graphic design, lighting design, case design, and didactics. Effective exhibition design should be visually appealing, informative, and accessible to a diverse audience.
**Exhibition Development** #
**Exhibition Development**
Exhibition development is the process of researching, planning, and creating a m… #
This may include conducting research, developing a concept, creating a design, and overseeing the fabrication and installation of the exhibition.
**Exhibition Installation** #
**Exhibition Installation**
Exhibition installation is the process of physically installing and assembling a… #
This may include the installation of display cases, lighting, graphics, and interactive displays. Exhibition installation requires careful coordination and attention to detail to ensure a safe and successful installation.
**Experiential Design** #
**Experiential Design**
Experiential design refers to the creation of immersive and interactive environm… #
Experiential design may include the use of multimedia, interactive displays, and immersive installations to create a memorable and impactful visitor experience.
**Fabrication** #
**Fabrication**
Fabrication refers to the process of constructing and assembling the physical el… #
Fabrication may include the creation of display cases, mounts, graphics, and interactive displays. Fabrication requires a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail.
**Graphic Design** #
**Graphic Design**
Graphic design refers to the use of visual elements, such as typography, images,… #
In museums, graphic design is used to create exhibition graphics, wayfinding signage, and marketing materials.
**Interactive Displays** #
**Interactive Displays**
Interactive displays are museum exhibits that allow visitors to engage with the… #
Interactive displays may include touch screens, buttons, levers, and other interactive elements that provide a dynamic and engaging visitor experience.
**Interpretation** #
**Interpretation**
Interpretation refers to the communication of museum content and messages to vis… #
Interpretation may include the use of text panels, multimedia presentations, interactive displays, and educational programs. Effective interpretation should be engaging, informative, and accessible to a diverse audience.
**Label Design** #
**Label Design**
Label design refers to the creation of text panels and labels for museum objects #
Label design must take into account factors such as readability, legibility, and visual appeal. Effective label design should provide clear and concise information about the object, while also complementing the overall exhibition design.
**Lighting Design** #
**Lighting Design**
Lighting design refers to the use of lighting to enhance the visual impact of a… #
Lighting design may include the selection of light sources, the placement of lighting fixtures, and the control of lighting levels. Effective lighting design should highlight key objects, create a mood, and enhance the overall exhibition design.
**Learning** #
**Learning**
Learning refers to the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and values through expe… #
Museums provide opportunities for informal learning through exhibitions, programs, and interactive displays.
**Museum Design** #
**Museum Design**
Museum design refers to the planning and creation of museum buildings, exhibitio… #
Museum design encompasses a wide range of elements, including architecture, interior design, exhibition design, and graphic design.
**Museum Planning** #
**Museum Planning**
Museum planning refers to the process of developing a strategic plan for a museu… #
Museum planning requires a thorough understanding of museum operations, as well as an awareness of trends and best practices in the field.
**Museum Studies** #
**Museum Studies**
Museum studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the history, theory,… #
Museum studies programs may include coursework in areas such as exhibition design, collection management, interpretation, and museum administration.
**Object Mounting** #
**Object Mounting**
Object mounting refers to the process of designing and creating supports and dis… #
Object mounting must take into account factors such as object safety, stability, and visibility. Effective object mounting should provide support and protection for the object, while also allowing for clear viewing and interpretation.
**Registration** #
**Registration**
Registration refers to the process of documenting and tracking museum objects, #
Registration refers to the process of documenting and tracking museum objects,