Should SMEs Lead Exhibition Projects?

(I can feel the unsubscribes coming. But this is important.)

Should a project be led by an SME — the subject matter expert, like a curator, historian or scientist — or by a project manager or exhibition developer?

There isn’t a single answer, but there are … guideposts.

If you have your SME lead, you’ll ensure intellectual depth, particularly for collection-based projects. But if that SME doesn’t have strong project management skills, you might run into problems with audience satisfaction, budget or schedule.

Of course, some SMEs can PM, so they can play both roles. And staff at smaller institutions may have to wear two hats regardless. But the principle remains.

(That was so diplomatic! But will it hold off the unsubscribes? Stay tuned.)

What about the reverse: the SME provides content, while a PM or developer leads? Your project might be more audience-centered, with better budget and schedule results.

Maybe best of all is the hybrid, where an SME and PM / developer co-lead. The SME heads content, while the PM / developer deals with process, team and schedule — all with audience in mind.

Here’s the thing:

Should an SME lead projects? Could work. But if you have a good PM / developer to lead or co-lead, you should try it.

Warmly,
Jonathan

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MtM Word of the Day:

Ambient light. [AM-bee-uhnt] The general, diffused light in a space that doesn't come from a specific source like a spotlight. This includes daylight and any artificial lights that provide overall illumination to a whole area.