ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a guide for managing visitor attention based on the attention-value model. It attempts to conceptually organize under the rubric of the attention-value model what we know about visitor research in a way that helps to identify strengths and weaknesses of exhibitions and suggests cost-effective ways to improve their overall visitor impact. The items in the guide identify many of the most important factors that influence the management of visitor attention. Based on a three-stage analysis of visitor attention, the guidelines were designed to organize the visitor research literature in a way meaningful to users. The attention-value model provides a tool for both analyzing and solving potential problems. The table includes a number of problems that span the continuum of attention from capture to deep engagement. There are a number of physical and mental states that can either increase or decrease the level of attention given to exhibitions and programs.
