Digital heritage initiatives face funding and management challenges

Museums and cultural institutions are increasingly utilizing 3D modeling and virtual tours to preserve and showcase historical artifacts. However, the transition to digital heritage presents significant logistical and financial hurdles.

In France, funding for virtual museum tours must be secured through a combination of sources, including the DRAC (Regional Directorates of Cultural Affairs), regional grants, European LEADER funds, and corporate sponsorship. A critical requirement for these subsidies is that project applications must be submitted before any contracts are signed or expenses are incurred.

In Vietnam, the Museum of Southern Women illustrates the gap between digitization and public access. While the museum has digitized 1,113 objects, only 113 are currently accessible to the public. Challenges include the need for secure data storage, standardized information, attractive content design, and a shortage of qualified personnel to manage and curate digital archives. The museum aims to complete new installations by 2027 to allow online access to its entire digitized collection.