Museum visitors flow scenarios

Multi-Agent Simulation for Museums: Testing Layout Scenarios and Optimizing Management

Dynamic multi-agent simulation is a powerful tool for testing various configurations of exhibit placement, artwork hanging, and visitor pathways in museums. It allows stakeholders to proactively explore the impact of different layouts on visitor flows, spatial circulation, and the overall quality of the visitor experience.

Anticipate Bottlenecks Before Construction

Using simulation, project teams can identify potential congestion points and bottlenecks along visitor routes. This enables testing multiple spatial organization scenarios before committing to costly renovations or construction.

Simulation can also accelerate the museum’s operation in virtual time, allowing analysis of decisions’ effects over a full day, season, or annual attendance.

A Tool for More Efficient Design and Operation

Multi-agent modeling is not limited to the design phase. It can also be applied as an operational management tool once the museum is open to the public. The model supports:

• Predicting occupancy rates of different rooms according to visitor profiles

• Planning human resources based on expected attendance

• Anticipating activity in critical areas (ticket counters, cloakrooms, cafeteria, gift shop)

• Adapting staff working conditions to actual or simulated visitor flows

Decision Support for Museums

Integrating simulation early in the project phases helps secure design choices, optimize costs, and provide visitors with a smooth and comfortable experience. During the operational phase, it serves as a continuous optimization tool enhancing reception quality and organizational performance.