A COMPARATIVE STUDY FOR THE COMMERCIALIZATION OF CULTURAL HERITAGE SERVICES' INSTITUTES-MUSEUMS: CAIRO EGYPTIAN MUSEUM AS A CASE STUDY

Abstract

The introduction defines the subject of this study and the problem thought to be investigated. It presents the justification for selecting this subject for research. It gives the objectives thought to be achieved. It states the hypotheses in the form of questions that could be answered through this thesis. It envisages the expected result. The introduction specifies the methodology used and sources of data, and finally gives the conceptual framework within which the research was carried.

Egypt possesses a wealth of cultural heritage that represents an accumulation of several civilizations that were witnessed by the country across its history, and left its landmarks in a huge spectrum of physical and non-physical heritage. The former can be seen in museums' collections, archaeological sites and manuscripts. The latter can be witnessed in music, folklore, language and traditions.

Museums play a crucial role in preserving and disseminating knowledge about cultural heritage. These organizations are established to house valuable artistic, historical or scientific collections that could amount to millions.

The main functions of any museum could be identified as preservation and restoration, documentation, scientific research, acquisition, exhibition, education and entertainment.

Museums in Egypt face several problems that hinder their capabilities to perform their functions efficiently and effectively; these problems could be summarized as follows: -The existence of a relatively insufficient number of museums to house the existing cultural heritage -The lack of educational institutes specialized in the museum's various functions -Museums' current legal status as governmental line units poses the following problems: -A governmental style of management which is characterized by absence of owner, bureaucratic accountability, centralized decision-making, classical method of recruitment, limited flexibility in work assignment, lack of personnel with experience in efficient and effective market tactics and mechanisms, low wages and salaries and weak incentives. -Insufficient, unreliable and unsustainable state resources, which poses pressure on the E.S.C.A.'s budget which is financed from the Monuments and Museums Fund.