Suggestion of RFID technology for tracking museum objects in Turkey

This paper investigates the use of data in Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for museum applications in Turkey. Turkish museums hold approximately three million cultural and natural artifacts. In addition to protecting movable cultural and natural artifacts, which is important for both natural and cultural heritage, documentation, inventories, and presentation to the public through museum exhibitions are necessary. This paper analyzes the use of RFID technology applications in museums and technological adaptation experiences across the world to address suggestions for Turkish museums in order to overcome some of the problems with inventories and security tracking, as well as to provide dynamism in presentation. In conclusion, we argue that RFID technology can be applied in Turkey for inventories of artifacts, monitoring and tracking collections, and interactive museum displays. RFID technology requires adaptation to museum characteristics including needs, infrastructure plans, and types of artifacts both on display and in storage facilities. This may require development of special projects and strategic planning before RFID can be employed in Turkish museums. Besides research and technical assistance, we also believe that training of museum staff and administrators about RFID technology should be an integral part of installing RFID applications in Turkish museums.