Exploring the Digital Transformation Dilemma of Chinese Museums: A Comparative Study

ABSTRACT This paper aims to explore the key challenges encountered by Chinese museums during digital transformation. Based on in‐depth interviews with 16 experts, this paper employs a comparative thematic approach. The findings highlight the differences between provincial, municipal, and county museums in terms of policy, finance, equipment, and staff. Recommendations are made for ensuring the sustainability of digital development. This study reveals that provincial‐level Chinese museums are actively engaging in digital transformation initiatives. Although Chinese museums operate within a hierarchical policy framework, collaboration across institutions and a deeper understanding of policy remain limited. Financially, museums face insufficient funding and application problems. In terms of staff, museum personnel lack the talent and enthusiasm needed to implement digital transformation. To promote sustainable digital transformation, this study recommends clearer policy guidance with standardized frameworks, diversified financial strategies through IP and cultural products, the prioritization of appropriate advanced equipment with cross‐museum sharing, and the recruitment of cross‐disciplinary professionals.