Usability evaluation of a prototype iPhone App for Osaka Castle Museum: outcomes and reflections

Abstract

The evaluation of the effectiveness of new technologies for cultural heritage is becoming increasingly relevant, as the number of tools and media for public presentation grows rapidly across the world. Amongst these technologies, smartphone applications are rapidly increasing, with museums releasing new Apps at an incredible pace. It is therefore important to understand how these Apps are re-shaping the behaviour of museums’ visitors and the approach of heritage professionals. This paper presents the outcomes of a user evaluation of a prototype iPhone App developed for Osaka Castle Museum in Japan. It reports on the methodology adopted and the results gathered, but it also reflects on implications and cultural issues.