Digital Technologies in Italian Cultural Institutions

The application of digital technologies plays a crucial role in offering solutions to enhance the economic potential of the cultural sector, through new modalities for distribution and reception of cultural experiences. The question of whether and how ICT adds value to collections, museums, and cultural sites and promotes access and communication with users/visitors is an open one. This chapter aims to provide empirical evidence on the effects of technological innovations in the economic performance of cultural institutions. To this end, the authors use data of Italy’s statistical office covering the universe of Italian cultural organizations in the year 2018. The findings suggest that new digital technologies play a role in enhancing the value and relevance of cultural heritage and its influences over the socio-economic context.