From Pricing to Priceless: Decoding Differentiated Pricing in Yogyakarta's Museum

18 January 2024

The early-year meeting has always been an intense event, leaving a fatigue that sticks to us after hours of grappling with the company's annual strategic plans. However, amidst that weariness, an unexpected opportunity emerged. A few colleagues and I seized the chance to explore a renowned museum located on the outskirts of Yogyakarta. Little did we expect that this activity would surpass the fatigue and leave unforgettable memories etched in our minds. The museum not only enriched our knowledge of the local culture but also surprised us with an intriguing discovery - the intricacies of their pricing strategy. The differentiated ticket pricing sparked curiosity within me, igniting a desire to return and explore other exhibitions. To me, it is evidence of the museum's ability to captivate visitors not only through cultural offerings but also through a well-planned pricing approach, creating a lasting impression that beckons us for more.

The Cultural Adventure Begins

As custodians of culture, museums in Yogyakarta are entrusted with the tasks of collecting, conserving, studying, exhibiting, and communicating. What struck me during my visit to this museum was their meticulous marketing approach, particularly the use of a differentiated ticket pricing strategy. This strategy, designed to optimize profits and sustain visitor interest, turned out to be a unique and unexpected discovery.

Decoding Differentiated Pricing

Recognizing the importance of a well-thought-out pricing strategy, this particular museum in Yogyakarta has embraced differentiated pricing. This involves adjusting ticket costs based on the unique experiences offered by each exhibition, a strategic move aimed at enriching the appeal of the exhibits and eliciting a desire for repeat visits.

The Power of Perception

A crucial aspect in the strategy of price differentiation, as highlighted by Frey & Steiner (2010), is shaping the perceived value for visitors. The museum I visited understands that a captivating first-time experience is crucial in enticing visitors to return. Through a tiered exhibition structure, they provide different perspectives on the unique values embedded in each experience, creating a narrative that goes beyond mere artifacts.

Case Study: Differentiation in Action

On the outskirts of Yogyakarta, this museum has categorized its exhibitions based on the ambiance and experience they offer. This not only stimulates visitors' curiosity but also tailors the museum experience to accommodate diverse preferences.

To enhance the experience for first-time visitors-including my colleagues and I, the museum suggests guiding them to the most accessible and affordable exhibition. This serves as an introduction, acquainting visitors with the museum's distinct values while subtly introducing the concept of exploring other exhibitions during subsequent visits.

Cultivating Cultural Enthusiasts

The museum's differentiated pricing strategy goes beyond revenue optimization; it is a commitment to providing diverse encounters tailored to individual preferences. Beyond financial transactions, the tiered pricing model shapes perceptions and cultivates a community of cultural enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In museum management, a successful pricing strategy transcends mere financial transactions; it becomes a gateway to a world of unique cultural experiences. The success of a differentiated pricing strategy, as illustrated by one museum in Yogyakarta, lies not only in optimizing revenue but also in its profound ability to shape visitor perceptions. By designing distinct experiences for each exhibition, the museum strategically molds the perceived value of its offerings. This unexpected journey revealed that successful museum management goes beyond financial transactions. It transforms a visit into a cultural odyssey, offering unique and personalized experiences that resonate with visitors, fostering enduring connections between the institution and its patrons.


 

Fanny Sekar Parentya - Business Development at prasmul-eli

The early-year meeting has always been an intense event, leaving a fatigue that sticks to us after hours of grappling with the company's annual strategic plans. However, amidst that weariness, an unexpected opportunity emerged. A few colleagues and I seized the chance to explore a renowned museum located on the outskirts of Yogyakarta. Little did we expect that this activity would surpass the fatigue and leave unforgettable memories etched in our minds. The museum not only enriched our knowledge of the local culture but also surprised us with an intriguing discovery - the intricacies of their pricing strategy. The differentiated ticket pricing sparked curiosity within me, igniting a desire to return and explore other exhibitions. To me, it is evidence of the museum's ability to captivate visitors not only through cultural offerings but also through a well-planned pricing approach, creating a lasting impression that beckons us for more.

The Cultural Adventure Begins

As custodians of culture, museums in Yogyakarta are entrusted with the tasks of collecting, conserving, studying, exhibiting, and communicating. What struck me during my visit to this museum was their meticulous marketing approach, particularly the use of a differentiated ticket pricing strategy. This strategy, designed to optimize profits and sustain visitor interest, turned out to be a unique and unexpected discovery.

Decoding Differentiated Pricing

Recognizing the importance of a well-thought-out pricing strategy, this particular museum in Yogyakarta has embraced differentiated pricing. This involves adjusting ticket costs based on the unique experiences offered by each exhibition, a strategic move aimed at enriching the appeal of the exhibits and eliciting a desire for repeat visits.

The Power of Perception

A crucial aspect in the strategy of price differentiation, as highlighted by Frey & Steiner (2010), is shaping the perceived value for visitors. The museum I visited understands that a captivating first-time experience is crucial in enticing visitors to return. Through a tiered exhibition structure, they provide different perspectives on the unique values embedded in each experience, creating a narrative that goes beyond mere artifacts.

Case Study: Differentiation in Action

On the outskirts of Yogyakarta, this museum has categorized its exhibitions based on the ambiance and experience they offer. This not only stimulates visitors' curiosity but also tailors the museum experience to accommodate diverse preferences.

To enhance the experience for first-time visitors-including my colleagues and I, the museum suggests guiding them to the most accessible and affordable exhibition. This serves as an introduction, acquainting visitors with the museum's distinct values while subtly introducing the concept of exploring other exhibitions during subsequent visits.

Cultivating Cultural Enthusiasts

The museum's differentiated pricing strategy goes beyond revenue optimization; it is a commitment to providing diverse encounters tailored to individual preferences. Beyond financial transactions, the tiered pricing model shapes perceptions and cultivates a community of cultural enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In museum management, a successful pricing strategy transcends mere financial transactions; it becomes a gateway to a world of unique cultural experiences. The success of a differentiated pricing strategy, as illustrated by one museum in Yogyakarta, lies not only in optimizing revenue but also in its profound ability to shape visitor perceptions. By designing distinct experiences for each exhibition, the museum strategically molds the perceived value of its offerings. This unexpected journey revealed that successful museum management goes beyond financial transactions. It transforms a visit into a cultural odyssey, offering unique and personalized experiences that resonate with visitors, fostering enduring connections between the institution and its patrons.


 

Fanny Sekar Parentya - Business Development at prasmul-eli

Prasetiya Mulya Executive Learning Institute
Prasetiya Mulya Cilandak Campus, Building 2, #2203
Jl. R.A Kartini (TB. Simatupang), Cilandak Barat, Jakarta 12430
Indonesia
Prasetiya Mulya Executive Learning Institute
Prasetiya Mulya Cilandak Campus, Building 2, #2203
Jl. R.A Kartini (TB. Simatupang), Cilandak Barat,
Jakarta 12430
Indonesia