Case study two - The step by step process

The Significance assessment process involves

We can break this down further into a workable method for you to follow.
This is described fully in Case Study 2, with examples.

Follow these steps to assess the significance of an object or collection in your museum.


1  Develop an object or item file to collate collections records

This may include the acquisition date, donor details, notes made when the object was acquired, photos, copies of reference material and notes on related objects in thecollection.


2  Research the item’s history and provenance

This includes photos of it in use, notes about the owner or place where it was used, when it was made or purchased, and general history.


3  Talk with donors, owners and investigate community associations

This will ensure that the context, provenance and potential social values of the object are fully understood. Encourage the donor to write notes and describe the history and meaning of the object and when it was in use. Consult other people in the community who may have information about the object or expert knowledge of similar items and of the associated industry or trade.


4  Explore the wider context of the item, historical, environmental or other

Consider its relationship to other objects, where it was used, the locality and how it relates to the history and geography of the area. Wherever possible, record the object or collection in its context of use and original location.


5  Analyse the item’s fabric, design, manufacture and condition

Document how an object works, what it is made of, its manufacture, patterns of wear, repairs and adaptations. Record the object’s condition. (This step may be part of your cataloguing procedures.)


6  Consider comparative examples

Consider comparative examples of similar objects. Check to see if AMOL lists other similar or related objects. Check reference books and talk with colleagues and other museums with related collections. Judge whether the item is common or rare, in good condition or intact, and if it is well-provenancd and documented by comparison to similar items in other museums.


7  Assess significance against the criteria

The main criteria are historic, aesthetic, scientific and social values. Determine the degree of significance by assessing against the comparative criteria – provenance, rarity, representativeness, condition and integrity, and interpretive potential. The criteria will help you analyse and define the object’s significance.

8 Write a statement of significance

The statement of significance encapsulates the object’s values and meaning. Do not just say the object is significant – explain why it is significant and what it means.

Taken from: (significance) A GUIDE TO ASSESSING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CULTURAL HERITAGE OBJECTS AND COLLECTIONS Heritage Collections Council 2001, P 20