Analytical hierarchy process (AHP) driven customization of digital features integration in physical replicas for meaningful museum communication

Abstract

The integration of digital features into physical replicas offers a transformative approach to enhancing museum communication, bridging tangible heritage with new interpretive tools. Drawing on expert judgement in the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), this research offers guidelines to harmonize digital enhancements with different heritage content types, showing the interplay between the physical and digital dimensions in a museum setting. The study analyzed twenty-five interactive museum prototypes, identifying six categories of heritage content: historical context, architectural aspects, spatial dimensions, aesthetic features, social context, and scientific information. Five digital features (i.e., audio materials, digital displays, projections, digital 3D reconstructions, and gamification) were evaluated by experts for their communication effectiveness based on content types. Results indicated that digital 3D reconstructions are better at historical context, architecture, spatial, and aesthetic displays; gamification can convey social contexts more effectively. Audio materials are better at simplification of complex scientific information. This research highlights the potential of tailored digital-physical integrations to optimize museum communication, providing curators and designers with actionable insights for creating meaningful, expert-driven experiences. The findings emphasize the importance of aligning technological innovation with the preservation of cultural authenticity to ensure that hybrid spaces foster engagement, understanding, and inclusivity in cultural heritage interpretation.

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ORCID for Ramy Hammady: orcid.org/0000-0003-4764-6039

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