Learning Network as a mechanism for bridging the knowledge gap between European Cultural Institutions and Digital Technologies Professionals

In order to overcome the major gap between the Cultural Heritage (CH) and the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) world, which is slowing down the successful use and implementation of ICT technologies; this paper presents the methodology behind the creation of the Network of Expertise. The main objective of this network is to support the understanding of both worlds, providing training and facilitating knowledge acquisition of the domain from all perspectives, improving methodologies and techniques to fit better with the needs of the users, and debating new ways to introduce and use technology in CH that fits with the needs of the CH institutions. The methodology known as Learning Network integrates action learning techniques with the network approach producing a very powerful mechanism for sharing knowledge between different organisations. The vision is to create a network of centres, organized in a Europe-wide network, integrating a number of local CH and ICT institutions, policymakers, companies, research institutions and other stakeholders with a regional mission to improve the sector. The paper will further discuss the lessons learned, successes and challenges encountered during the implementation of the network.