Beyond visitor statistics: value propositions and metrics for university museums and collections

This paper charts a small collaborative research project involving managers of university museums and collections based in one higher education institution. Data around museum and collection processes were gathered over a one-year period in an attempt to develop and quantify a series of value propositions. These are explored with the framework of value propositions elaborated in the literature for public museums. Some operational data of relevance to the tripartite university mission of teaching, research and engagement are quantifiable, but variability reduces its utility for internal institutional advocacy for resources. While the model of analysis developed here is institution-specific, it is useful as a framework for developing value propositions for universities with diverse and disparate museums and collections not already drawn into a single institutional strategy.