POLIN Museum's Joanna Król on Digital Strategy Challenges in Poland

Joanna Król, who leads the Digital Collection and Resource Center at the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews in Warsaw, shares insights on the museum's digital approach while reflecting on the future of museums. She observes that in Central and Eastern Europe, new national historical museums are emerging to address 20th-century history and influence national identity, whereas Western institutions tend to concentrate on local matters. Król anticipates that in the coming decade, audiences will crave genuine, personal experiences, with digitalization complementing rather than replacing physical visits. Nonetheless, she points out major obstacles in Poland, including stress from excessive digital engagement, a lack of legal frameworks for digital collections, inadequate funding for innovative technologies, and a financially strained society unable to invest in quality equipment. Additionally, the museum struggles with the absence of a dedicated digital team and a cohesive strategy, often introducing products without conducting market research. Over the last three years, POLIN has enhanced its digital presence, currently rating itself at 5/10. Future hurdles include training staff on the advantages of digital tools and promoting the use of the digital archive. Król stresses the importance of patient IT professionals and clear hiring processes. This interview was conducted by Symbola and Melting Pro.