At 08:17 AM 8/8/96 +0200, Kathryn Mathers wrote:

(snip)
>We do tend to contribute to society not seeing museologists as
>professionals. It doesn't seem to be a problem in the US...

Oh, don't assume... ;-)

(snip)
>...museums would
>rather employ market research companies with no experience in
>non-profit or education institutions to do their visitor research,

I am a staunch defender of visitor research.  I see no problem with hiring
professionals to do a complicated, highly technical job.  The problems arise
when we (museums) do not appreciate the complexity, do not work closely with
the research firms to make sure they understand our unique situation and
needs.  One certainly wouldn't just hand a building contractor a blueprint
and never check up on their progress; by the same token one must work
closely with contracted researchers to assure a good final product.

Just my 2c.


Eugene W. Dillenburg
Coordinator, Special Projects
Exhibits Department
The Field Museum of Natural History
Chicago, Illinois  60605-2496
V: (312) 922-9410 x636
F: (312) 922-6973
E: [log in to unmask]

"Never pay more than minimum wage for a shirt."

                                -- Bruce Elliott