DIGITAL ACCESSIBILITY IN PUBLIC MANAGEMENT OF MUSEUMS

DOI: 10.31673/2786-7412.2025.016470

Abstract

The article examines the processes of digital transformation in museum
institutions, particularly the implementation of modern technologies to improve
interaction with visitors and ensure accessibility for various population groups. Digital
accessibility in museums is an important aspect of ensuring equal access to cultural
heritage for all categories of citizens, including people with disabilities. Digital
inclusion in museums involves the integration of modern technologies, such as virtual
tours, video guides, and assistive devices, which make museum resources accessible to
a broader audience, including marginalized groups. The experience of museums such
as the Museum of Geology and Paleontology in Florence shows how digital
technologies can create inclusive conditions for visitors with limited abilities. However,
many museums still face accessibility issues with their websites and mobile
applications.
The article presents an analysis of the digital accessibility of websites of 22
museums in Ukraine, participants of the MemorySavers project conducted in 2023. The
accessibility evaluation was carried out in October 2024 using tools such as WAVE and
AccessScan. The results showed that more than half of the museums have serious digital
accessibility issues, particularly in aspects such as clickable elements, document
structure, graphics, and menus. For example, the websites of the Rivne Regional
Museum of Local Lore and the Chernihiv Regional Historical Museum require
significant changes to meet accessibility standards.
Other museums demonstrated partial compliance, particularly in the organization
of headings and forms. However, to achieve full accessibility, improvements are needed
in graphic elements, text readability, and support for mobile orientations. The research
results highlight the importance of improving digital accessibility for Ukrainian
museums and the need for a broader implementation of inclusive practices in the digital
environment of cultural institutions.

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