The economic dimensions of digitalisation of cultural heritage

This paper explores the economic dimensions of the digitalisation of cultural heritage, focusing on its impact on the cultural heritage value chain, the associated economic logics, and the effects on the labour market. The digitisation of heritage assets represents a significant investment that enhances the mission and effectiveness of heritage institutions. However, it also introduces challenges related to sustainability, access, and the monetisation of digital content. The paper argues that the digitisation process, while offering vast opportunities for increased visibility and engagement, also needs careful management to avoid overexploitation, loss of control over content, and the potential marginalisation of smaller institutions (Borin and Donato, 2023). It also highlights the evolving skill requirements, driven by the integration of digital technologies and the advent of artificial intelligence, which are reshaping professional practices and job markets. Finally, the paper discusses the implications for cultural policy, particularly in ensuring equitable access, preventing the instrumentalisation of heritage, and addressing the environmental and economic sustainability of digital heritage ecosystems.