Beyond the Physical: The Taoka Online Project – A Case Study

Abstract

Research problem: The number of digitisation projects undertaken by museums are increasing. Understanding how digitisation projects are understood by the key stakeholders involved is important to the project’s success. Using the Taoka Online Project as a case study this research aims to examine digitisation projects in New Zealand.

Methodology: This research uses a qualitative case study approach. Interviews were conducted with representatives from eight stakeholder groups involved in the Taoka Online Project and then analysed using grounded theory.

Results: This research found that digitisation is considered very important by those involved in a digitisation project. Accessibility was the main benefit of digitisation, while working with cultural objects was often mentioned as a challenge. Participants believed the Taoka Online Project was progressing well, but that the work involved in a digitisation project was often under-estimated.

Implications: Accessibility is considered a very important aspect of a modern museum’s role. Digitisation ensures that the collection can be reached by a wider audience, therefore digitisation helps a museum fulfil a primary function. Working with cultural material, particularly taoka, gives some New Zealand museum professionals a sense of anxiety, meaning familiarising staff with cultural protocols is important so staff feel more comfortable. Though participants believed the Taoka Online Project was progressing well, there was a sense that participants believed the sheer amount of work involved is often under-estimated. Making sure to realistically plan out a digitisation project is key to its success.