Building collections knowledge
The way in which knowledge in museums is managed, communicated and valued is key to successful collections use.
Collections research plans
Production of a research plan or strategy which aligns with broader organisational aims can ensure collections-based activities are well informed and resourced, interpretation is effective and access to priority collections increased.
To find out more about writing and implementing your own collections research plan keep a look out for relevant MGS training courses on the Training section of the website.
MGS has also published a pair of complementary advice sheets, one focusing on internal research and the other on facilitating external researchers. These are available to download from the right-hand side of this page and are intended to provide support in taking the first steps to understanding, undertaking or facilitating collections research.
Collections research and travel bursaries
In order to manage collections effectively and provide opportunities for audiences to be inspired by them, museums regularly need to assess the knowledge they hold about collections and invest in ways to enrich it.
Every year, MGS offers Collections Research and Travel Bursaries to curators and collections managers (honorary and paid) in full member museums who are interested in developing their skills and increasing their knowledge of a sparsely documented or researched collection in their care.
Since the programme was introduced in 2007, awards have been made to individuals at 12 organisations across Scotland, from Shetland to North Ayrshire. They have undertaken a wide range of activities including spending time with collections specialists, visiting other museums and sites (in the UK and internationally), undertaking residential study courses, attending conferences and researching other collections in order to share expertise or improve access to their own.
The deadline for applications to the 2011-12 programme has now passed, with staff and volunteers from Dunblane Museum, Glasgow Life Museums, West Dunbartonshire Council and the Museum of the Black Watch successfully securing awards.
To learn more about some of the exciting projects that have already taken place, see the case studies below, or get in touch directly to discuss your ideas for collections research with our Collections Development Manager.
Succession planning
Without succession planning valuable resources can otherwise be forgotten or become difficult to access, leading to a decline in collection use. With funding from The Monument Trust, the Museum's Association has run a pilot programme of fellowships for retired (or soon to be retired) museum professionals. Find out more on the Museums Association website.
