Anne Lane wrote:
> We are looking for some ideas about the naming of museums.

At the Visitor Studies Association meeting last summer, Jennifer Lanning
of the Minnesota Historical Society presented an interesting poster
session about names, "What's in a Name? Public Perceptions of Venue
Names." They tested types of names with local residents to learn what
they might mean - before naming their new facility. Although the names
were classic - history center, historic site, heritage center, etc. -
you might be interested in their methodology.

I know from The Tech's experience that whatever name you choose must
resonate with your audiences. Our institution's name used to be "The
Technology Center of Silicon Valley" and our museum was called "The
Garage." Although meaningful to us, these names could be confusing to
visitors. Many people equated "technology center" with "convention
center" or "industry cluster." And, just imagine what you would think if
you saw the word "Garage" on a map!

--
Susan B.F. Wageman
Evaluation Manager                       [log in to unmask]
The Tech Museum of Innovation            408-795-6303
201 South Market Street                  fax: 408-279-7167
San Jose, California USA 95113           http://www.thetech.org

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