Digital awareness makes the cultural sector futureproof

As a driver of digital transformation, DEN makes cultural institutions aware that successful digitization revolves around an integrated approach: it only works if the entire organization participates. Investing in separate skills such as Google Analytics, digital archiving, and CRM systems yields insufficient results. Lay a solid foundation by choosing digital leadership and working on digital intelligence. The more digitally aware employees are, the better the foundation for a successful digital strategy.

At the same time, in most institutions surveyed by DEN, digital innovation is still driven ad hoc and not based on a strategy. Artistic creations are already the epitome of innovation; now it is time for cultural institutions to determine their position regarding technology and innovation.

Steering towards agility

Organizations that anticipate changing circumstances are proven to be more successful, customer-oriented, efficient, and profitable. While the cultural sector excelled in digital agility during the lockdowns, it now seems to be turning back the clock. Is this wise? After all, the digital society continues to evolve.

Innovation continuously demands a critical perspective on the offerings and support for a change in direction, as society becomes increasingly digital. When there is organization-wide space—from public-facing staff to business leaders—to change together, an essential first step is taken. Ideally, cultural institutions would be more open to trends and developments and then reflect on their business model and audience. This creates learning organizations where experimentation and collaboration are prioritized. In this way, you remain relevant, even in the future.

Digital pioneers are more successful

Pioneers already have a digital strategy or are in the process of shaping one. They have often appointed a 'digital officer' and allocated a budget for this. This also influences HR policy: pioneers actively train and guide their employees and understand the type of skills and mindset required. Together, they seek (external) perspectives and dare to take risks and make mistakes.

The comprehensive approach used by pioneers ensures the permanent embedding of their strategy and a greater audience reach. They not only meet the needs of an audience that has embraced the hybrid life, but also the audience of the future: a generation growing up in a world where everything is completely blended.

The sector as a whole cannot and should not transition on their own. There are calls from various parties to support the sector in their digital endeavors. Our digital society offers cultural organizations plenty of opportunities to increase their relevance.

Through their integrated approach, pioneers ensure the sustainable embedding of their strategy and expand their reach. They not only cater to an audience that has embraced the hybrid life but also to the audience of the future, a generation growing up completely blended.

The sector as a whole cannot and should not make this digital shift on its own. Calls are coming from various corners to support the sector in this endeavor. The digital society offers cultural institutions plenty of opportunities to increase their relevance.

More flexible spending and accountability

The Podiumkunsten Alliantie advocates for digital production houses to share knowledge about online creation and production processes. The VNG champions digital transformation and addresses current financial challenges. Smaller institutions, in particular, lack sufficient budgets to develop digital offerings and market them. DEN previously identified this digital divide and sees a role for the government here.

A more flexible accountability structure allows room for innovation. DEN's survey revealed how urgent it is to have a vision on digital transformation that goes beyond the four-year subsidy allocation. Additionally, institutions prioritize the freedom to spend subsidy funds. Making a digital impact requires significant investments. The Council for Culture also raises questions about the current structure of the basic infrastructure and assessment criteria, as organizational forms and genres become less defined.

When cultural institutions are integrally digitally active, their needs become apparent. DEN plays an important role in this: not only as a driver but also as an educator and knowledge sharer. Pioneers in the field show that digitization is not a way to survive but to thrive further. Be digitally aware, and you'll be equipped for the future!