Articulation & Creation: Building User-First Experiences [VRC Foundations 3]

When museum leaders discuss becoming more user-focused, they often jump straight to programs and exhibitions. But my research reveals that genuine transformation begins much earlier — with how we define our fundamental purpose and communicate with our communities. What appears to be an implementation challenge is actually a mindset challenge. User-first thinking must permeate every aspect of museum operations, from mission statements to daily decision-making. This isn't about semantics or superficial changes to communication strategies. It requires a wholesale shift in how we conceive of and articulate our value, followed by systematic changes to how we create experiences. In this third session of the Foundations series, we'll examine the crucial connection between articulation and creation. Our discussion will explore how reframing institutional purpose through a user-first lens leads naturally to more engaging, meaningful experiences. Session Focus & Required ReadingOur discussion explores two interconnected chapters from my book, Leaning into Value: Becoming a User-Focused Museum: Chapter 5: Articulating Value This chapter challenges traditional top-down approaches to mission and vision, presenting a bottom-up alternative that begins with user consultation. We'll examine how this shift in institutional mindset creates the conditions for genuine user-focused operations. Chapter 6: Creating Value Drawing from decades of museum research, I present 10 key principles for creating satisfying user experiences. These evidence-based guidelines offer a practical framework for experience design. Come prepared to discuss passages you found particularly relevant or challenging for your institution. - John Falk Session Structure1. Opening Reflection (10 minutes) 2. Small Group Discussion (15 minutes) 3. Challenge Synthesis (5 minutes) 4. Facilitated Discussion with Dr. Falk (45 minutes) 5. Closing (5 minutes) Participation & RegistrationParticipation is open to: • Learning Leaders from institutions enrolled in The Value Realization Collaborative • Staff from institutions enrolled as Organizational Members Not Yet Enrolled? Registration for the Value Realization Collaborative closes January 31, 2025. Institutions can choose: • Full Program (includes membership, events, coursework for learning leaders, and implementation support through November) or the Foundations Program (includes membership, February events, and coursework) — Registration • Organizational Members (event participation only for your staff)  — Registration About John FalkDr. John Falk is the Founder and CEO of the Institute for Learning Innovation and Emeritus Sea Grant Professor of Free-Choice Learning at Oregon State University. His research focuses on how cultural institutions support public wellbeing and learning. Dr. Falk's work is transforming how museums understand and validate their impact. How to Participate1. Complete the assigned reading before the session (If your copy of the book doesn’t arrive in time, let us know and we’ll send you a scan of the introduction and first two chapters.) 2. Join via the link in your calendar invitation 3. Come prepared to engage in focused discussion 4. Consider bringing specific examples from your institution This session will be recorded and edited to protect participant privacy. The recording will be made available in the MaP Insights space. Questions?Leave a comment below or email [email protected]