What if your university museum could continue its mission, reach a broader audience and generate additional income online—all while the museum itself is closed during the coronavirus outbreak?
What if these benefits could be extended even after the outbreak is over?
What if, instead of offering a flashy online brochure, you had a site that provided actual educational experiences—courses? Events? What if it could build a community and raise money? I believe all of this is possible and I have preliminary ideas of how to make this happen. I have 20+ years as a web developer, I hold an MBA with a concentration in marketing, and worked directly with customers on the floor of a major museum for the better part of a decade.
Most important, I love museums and want to help them. I believe that this difficult time is the perfect one to gear up for current and future challenges.
But good intentions is not enough. If you are a professional working or volunteering at a university museum, I need your help. Would you be willing to share your expertise and insights? Answer a few questions? This would help me develop the best possible solution to the problem. And you might get some ideas on how to help your museum during this crisis—and beyond.
If you are willing, I’d be grateful.
From the Blog

EDUCATION
I plan to setup a sample course. I believe it’s usually best to keep it simple. A video, some text and quizzes. Give the student a certificate upon successfully completing the course. Suggest other opportunities for the student to continue her/his relationship with the university and the university museum.
COMMUNITY
Website-based communities can engage people on an ongoing basis in many ways. This is one way to truly build relationships with customers. That said, operating and maintaining communities is labor intensive and is only recommended for those with the resources to keep it running smoothly.
EXISTING SITE
Because this enhanced site requires a certain focus and some specific technology, it probably should not be part of any existing site.
MONTHLY SERVICES
I believe these sites should, insofar as possible, be managed in house. That said, it’s unlikely that all of it will be possible to handle in house. I plan to offer training and/or monthly services—for those who need it—at a reasonable fee to ensure the ongoing success of the site.