Two MCA Publications: Exploring Digital Transformation and Civic Impact in the GLAM Sector

As part of our TRANSFORM programme, we have produced two key reports that shed light on how cultural institutions are navigating digital transformation and how digital cultural content can strengthen democracy and civic engagement. Together, these publications offer valuable insights for the GLAM sector (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums), higher education stakeholders, and cultural policy makers across Europe.

Assessing the Digital Maturity of GLAMs

The first report, “Digital Maturity of GLAMs”, presents the results and reflections of a comprehensive survey conducted by MCA. The primary objective of the study was to investigate the level of digital maturity of cultural institutions—mainly, though not exclusively, those affiliated with the MCA network.

The survey explores how far institutions have progressed in embracing digital transformation, understood not simply as the adoption of new tools, but as the integration of digital technologies across workflows, services, and value propositions. It examines organisational strategies, skills, infrastructure, and mindsets, highlighting both strengths and gaps within the sector.

By mapping current practices and challenges, the report provides a valuable benchmark for cultural organisations seeking to better understand their digital readiness and to plan future transformation pathways.

📄 Read the full report:
Digital Maturity of GLAMs

Digital Cultural Content, Democracy, and Higher Education

The second publication, “Survey on the Impact of Digital Cultural Content on Democracy and Civic Engagement in Higher Education Contexts”, focuses on the societal role of digital heritage. This study was developed by MCA in collaboration with its members and through a strategic partnership with the European network on cultural management and policy – ENCATC.

The need to explore this topic emerged from the experience of several MCA-led, EU-funded projects—such as CrowdHeritage, CrowdSchool, and others—that brought together participatory practices, digital cultural heritage, and educational stakeholders. These initiatives highlighted the potential of digital cultural content to actively contribute to civic life.

The report illustrates how digital heritage can support inclusive narratives, encourage critical thinking, and foster active citizenship, particularly within higher education environments. It also reflects on the role of educators, cultural institutions, and students in co-creating and engaging with digital cultural resources in ways that strengthen democratic values.

📄 Read the full report:
Survey on the Impact of Digital Cultural Content on Democracy and Civic Engagement

Moving Forward

Together, these two reports underline the importance of digital transformation not only as a technical or organisational process, but also as a cultural and societal opportunity. By strengthening digital capacities and rethinking the role of cultural content in education and civic life, GLAMs can play a key role in shaping more inclusive, participatory, and democratic futures.