maam2025buildingmuseums

A unique State agency client, multiple jurisdictional authorities, and the inevitable unforeseen conditions are obstacles easily overcome by a team prepared to protect the project vision! Join the Wisconsin History Center (WHC) project team to discuss how the Wisconsin Historical Society (WHS) intentionally crafted their approach within a state delivery structure not developed with museums in mind. Hear how a vision was crafted for the WHC as a hub of inspiration and exploration where people and communities connect to one another, across time, and through our shared American experiences. Learn how the team was intentionally built from WHS internal staff as well as external consultants to protect and realize this vision.

With groundbreaking behind them, the panel will lead a practical discussion of how museum organizations can prepare a vision and strategically build a team to successfully execute design and documentation while navigating the universal challenges museum organizations face on the path to a new innovative and inclusive experience. The team will speak to a project delivery process that navigates a challenging structure while crafting a successful building experience aligned to mission and vision.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the importance of and the complexities of harnessing community stories in the development of a 21st century museum.
2. Discuss how to build a team both internally and externally that aligns with your organizational structure and project approach.
3. Develop strategies to evaluate, prioritize, and right size a building program to achieve a unified vision within site constraints.
4. Develop strategies to navigate a museum project through a multi- (at times-conflicting) stakeholder and agency process.

AIA Continuing Education Course Number, BMS2025-10