Quick Overview
- 1#1: TMS - Enterprise-grade collections management system designed for museums to catalog, manage loans, and plan exhibits efficiently.
- 2#2: PastPerfect - User-friendly software for small to mid-sized museums to manage collections, track exhibits, and create public access kiosks.
- 3#3: KE EMu - Robust platform for comprehensive collections management including exhibit planning, research, and multimedia asset handling.
- 4#4: Axiell Collections - Scalable collections management solution supporting exhibition workflows, loans, and integrations for cultural institutions.
- 5#5: Vernon CMS - Flexible system for managing museum collections, exhibitions, loans, and digital publishing with strong customization options.
- 6#6: CollectiveAccess - Open-source collections and digital asset management system with tools for creating and managing online exhibits.
- 7#7: CollectionSpace - Open-source museum collections management software facilitating cataloging, procedures, and exhibit-related workflows.
- 8#8: Modes - Human-centered data management platform for collecting institutions to handle objects, exhibitions, and research collaboratively.
- 9#9: Omeka - Open-source web publishing platform for creating rich digital exhibits and managing scholarly collections.
- 10#10: Specify - Collections management software tailored for natural history museums with support for specimen tracking and exhibits.
Tools were selected and ranked based on key factors, including feature depth (collections management, loan tracking, and exhibit design), user experience (ease of use across institutional sizes), technical reliability, and value for specific use cases such as natural history or digital publishing workflows.
Comparison Table
This comparison table highlights top exhibit management software tools, such as TMS, PastPerfect, KE EMu, Axiell Collections, and Vernon CMS, to assist users in evaluating options for efficient collection management and exhibition coordination. By exploring key features, scalability, and workflow integration, readers can gain clear insights to select the best fit for their unique operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TMS Enterprise-grade collections management system designed for museums to catalog, manage loans, and plan exhibits efficiently. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | PastPerfect User-friendly software for small to mid-sized museums to manage collections, track exhibits, and create public access kiosks. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | KE EMu Robust platform for comprehensive collections management including exhibit planning, research, and multimedia asset handling. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Axiell Collections Scalable collections management solution supporting exhibition workflows, loans, and integrations for cultural institutions. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Vernon CMS Flexible system for managing museum collections, exhibitions, loans, and digital publishing with strong customization options. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | CollectiveAccess Open-source collections and digital asset management system with tools for creating and managing online exhibits. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 5.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 7 | CollectionSpace Open-source museum collections management software facilitating cataloging, procedures, and exhibit-related workflows. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.2/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 8 | Modes Human-centered data management platform for collecting institutions to handle objects, exhibitions, and research collaboratively. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Omeka Open-source web publishing platform for creating rich digital exhibits and managing scholarly collections. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 10 | Specify Collections management software tailored for natural history museums with support for specimen tracking and exhibits. | specialized | 6.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 5.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
Enterprise-grade collections management system designed for museums to catalog, manage loans, and plan exhibits efficiently.
User-friendly software for small to mid-sized museums to manage collections, track exhibits, and create public access kiosks.
Robust platform for comprehensive collections management including exhibit planning, research, and multimedia asset handling.
Scalable collections management solution supporting exhibition workflows, loans, and integrations for cultural institutions.
Flexible system for managing museum collections, exhibitions, loans, and digital publishing with strong customization options.
Open-source collections and digital asset management system with tools for creating and managing online exhibits.
Open-source museum collections management software facilitating cataloging, procedures, and exhibit-related workflows.
Human-centered data management platform for collecting institutions to handle objects, exhibitions, and research collaboratively.
Open-source web publishing platform for creating rich digital exhibits and managing scholarly collections.
Collections management software tailored for natural history museums with support for specimen tracking and exhibits.
TMS
enterpriseEnterprise-grade collections management system designed for museums to catalog, manage loans, and plan exhibits efficiently.
Integrated Exhibit Calendar that links loans, object locations, and schedules directly to core collection records for end-to-end visibility.
TMS by Gallery Systems is the industry-leading collection management software tailored for museums and cultural institutions, with powerful exhibit management capabilities that streamline planning, loans, installations, and deinstallations. It integrates seamlessly with core collection cataloging, enabling real-time tracking of objects in exhibits across multiple venues. Renowned for its scalability and reliability, TMS supports complex workflows for major institutions worldwide, ensuring compliance and detailed reporting.
Pros
- Unmatched depth in exhibit lifecycle management from planning to touring
- Robust integrations with imaging, conservation, and third-party systems
- Scalable for institutions of all sizes with cloud and on-premise options
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- High implementation and customization costs
- Overkill for very small collections without dedicated IT support
Best For
Large museums, galleries, and cultural organizations managing complex, multi-venue exhibits and extensive collections.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on collection size and modules, typically $50,000+ annually with one-time setup fees.
PastPerfect
enterpriseUser-friendly software for small to mid-sized museums to manage collections, track exhibits, and create public access kiosks.
Exhibit module's automated label generator and interactive checklists that streamline physical exhibit setup and documentation
PastPerfect is a comprehensive collections management software tailored for museums, historical societies, and cultural institutions, with robust exhibit management capabilities. It enables users to plan exhibits by creating itineraries, checklists of items, shipping logs, and condition reports, while automating label production and virtual exhibit displays. The software integrates seamlessly with cataloging, loans, and imaging modules for end-to-end artifact tracking.
Pros
- Integrated exhibit planning tools including itineraries, checklists, and automated labels
- Lifetime license model provides long-term value without recurring fees
- Strong multimedia support for virtual exhibits and high-resolution images
Cons
- Windows-only desktop application with a dated interface
- Limited real-time collaboration for multi-user environments
- Steeper learning curve for advanced reporting and customization
Best For
Small to mid-sized museums and historical societies needing integrated collections and exhibit management without subscription costs.
Pricing
One-time purchase starting at $1,195 for base edition, up to $9,500+ for full suites; optional annual support ~15-20% of license cost.
KE EMu
enterpriseRobust platform for comprehensive collections management including exhibit planning, research, and multimedia asset handling.
Fully integrated exhibit planning module that links objects directly to exhibition timelines, labels, and public web outputs
KE EMu by KE Software is a comprehensive collections and exhibit management system tailored for museums, galleries, and cultural heritage institutions. It enables detailed cataloging of objects, planning and tracking of exhibitions, loans, conservation, and multimedia documentation all within a single platform. The software supports exhibit lifecycle management from curation to installation, public display, and deinstallation, with robust reporting and web publishing capabilities.
Pros
- Highly scalable for large collections and institutions
- Deep integration between collections, exhibits, loans, and multimedia
- Proven reliability with widespread adoption in major museums worldwide
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- Custom implementation often requires significant setup time and IT support
- Pricing is enterprise-level and opaque without direct quotes
Best For
Large museums and cultural organizations requiring enterprise-grade exhibit and collection management with advanced reporting.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically starting at $20,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and institution size; quotes required.
Axiell Collections
enterpriseScalable collections management solution supporting exhibition workflows, loans, and integrations for cultural institutions.
Integrated risk assessment and insurance tracking for exhibit loans and transportation
Axiell Collections is a comprehensive collections management system tailored for museums, archives, galleries, and cultural heritage institutions. It excels in exhibit management by providing tools for planning, tracking loans, scheduling displays, inventory control, and condition reporting. The platform supports multimedia assets, workflows automation, and integrations with third-party systems for seamless operations across on-premise or cloud deployments.
Pros
- Robust exhibition workflow automation including loans and tours
- Advanced reporting and analytics for exhibit performance
- Scalable for multi-site and international collections
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Customization often requires professional services
- Pricing opaque without sales consultation
Best For
Mid-to-large museums and cultural institutions managing complex, multi-venue exhibitions with diverse collections.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on modules, users, and deployment; typically starts at $20,000+ annually for mid-sized institutions.
Vernon CMS
enterpriseFlexible system for managing museum collections, exhibitions, loans, and digital publishing with strong customization options.
Advanced exhibition module with built-in loan tracking, risk assessment, and multi-venue itinerary management
Vernon CMS is a robust collections management system tailored for museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, with strong capabilities in exhibit management. It facilitates the full exhibition lifecycle, including object selection, loan agreements, itineraries, shipping logistics, insurance tracking, and public-facing catalogs. The software integrates collections data with exhibit planning tools for seamless workflows and reporting.
Pros
- Comprehensive exhibit planning with automated checklists and loan management
- Highly customizable fields and workflows for complex museum needs
- Strong integration with public web catalogs and reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern SaaS tools
- High cost may deter smaller institutions
Best For
Mid-to-large museums and cultural organizations requiring integrated collections and exhibit management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically $25,000+ annually for mid-sized institutions, based on modules and users.
CollectiveAccess
specializedOpen-source collections and digital asset management system with tools for creating and managing online exhibits.
Exhibit module for building interactive online and physical exhibitions directly linked to cataloged objects with drag-and-drop layouts and tours
CollectiveAccess is an open-source collections and exhibit management platform designed for museums, archives, and cultural institutions. It enables cataloging of objects, creating virtual and physical exhibits by bundling items with custom layouts, tours, and multimedia integration. The software supports public-facing web portals for online exhibitions and provides robust tools for loans, conservation tracking, and reporting tied to exhibits.
Pros
- Free open-source software with no licensing fees
- Deep integration between collections management and exhibit creation
- Highly customizable with support for multimedia and multi-tenant installations
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring technical expertise for setup and customization
- Outdated user interface that can feel clunky
- Requires self-hosting and maintenance, adding indirect costs
Best For
Mid-sized museums and cultural heritage organizations with IT resources seeking a flexible, integrated solution for collections and exhibits.
Pricing
Free open-source; costs for hosting ($500-$5,000/year), customization, and optional support services.
CollectionSpace
specializedOpen-source museum collections management software facilitating cataloging, procedures, and exhibit-related workflows.
Fully open-source architecture allowing unlimited customization of exhibit procedures and data models without vendor lock-in
CollectionSpace is a free, open-source collections management system designed for museums, archives, and cultural institutions, with robust support for exhibit management including tracking objects in exhibitions, loans, condition reporting, and workflows. It enables detailed cataloging of exhibit-related procedures, authority control for exhibitions, and integration with other museum systems. While highly flexible, it requires customization to fully leverage its exhibit capabilities.
Pros
- Open-source and completely free, with no licensing fees
- Highly customizable for complex exhibit workflows and loans
- Comprehensive museum-specific features like condition checks and object tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Requires technical expertise for installation and customization
- User interface feels dated and less intuitive for non-technical users
Best For
Mid-to-large museums and cultural institutions needing a scalable, customizable system for collections and exhibit management.
Pricing
Free open-source software; implementation, hosting, and customization services may incur costs (typically $10,000+ for setup).
Modes
specializedHuman-centered data management platform for collecting institutions to handle objects, exhibitions, and research collaboratively.
Interactive components and real-time collaboration for building immersive, user-engaging exhibit experiences effortlessly
Modes (modes.world) is a no-code platform designed for building interactive web experiences, including virtual galleries and exhibit showcases through drag-and-drop components for media, databases, and embeds. It allows users to organize images, videos, documents, and other assets into dynamic, shareable pages without coding. While versatile for creative presentations, it lacks specialized exhibit management tools like Bates numbering or legal annotations, making it more suited for artistic or museum-style digital exhibits.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for quick exhibit assembly
- Stunning, responsive designs that enhance visual exhibits
- Easy sharing via links with password protection and embeds
Cons
- No dedicated exhibit-specific features like annotations or redaction
- Limited advanced search and metadata management for large collections
- Database capabilities are basic compared to enterprise tools
Best For
Small museums, galleries, or creative teams needing fast, beautiful virtual exhibit displays without technical expertise.
Pricing
Free tier available; Pro plan at $12/month per editor (billed annually) for unlimited publishing and custom domains; Team plans start at $45/month.
Omeka
specializedOpen-source web publishing platform for creating rich digital exhibits and managing scholarly collections.
Exhibit Builder for creating narrative-driven, thematic displays from tagged digital items
Omeka is an open-source web publishing platform tailored for museums, libraries, and archives to collect, manage, and exhibit digital cultural heritage items online. It allows users to upload assets like images, documents, and media, enrich them with detailed metadata, and build thematic exhibits using a flexible block-based builder. Omeka.net provides a hosted SaaS version, simplifying deployment while retaining core customization via themes and plugins.
Pros
- Highly customizable with plugins, themes, and API integrations for advanced exhibit needs
- Robust metadata management supporting standards like Dublin Core for scholarly use
- Open-source core allows free self-hosting with no licensing fees
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users, especially customization and setup
- Hosted Omeka.net plans can become pricey for larger collections
- User interface feels dated compared to modern no-code exhibit tools
Best For
Museums, archives, and academic institutions needing flexible, metadata-rich digital exhibits without high costs.
Pricing
Free for self-hosted; Omeka.net hosted plans start at $55/month (Basic, 1GB storage) up to $235/month (Premium, unlimited storage).
Specify
specializedCollections management software tailored for natural history museums with support for specimen tracking and exhibits.
Advanced Taxonomic Intelligence for automatic name correction and authority file integration
Specify is an open-source collection management software designed primarily for natural history museums and herbaria to catalog, track, and manage biological specimens. It provides tools for data entry, taxonomic intelligence, loan and exchange tracking, multimedia attachments, and customizable reporting. While robust for biodiversity collections used in scientific exhibits, it lacks specialized features for legal or trial exhibit presentation, such as annotations, redaction, or courtroom integration.
Pros
- Excellent taxonomic data management and validation
- Strong support for imaging and multimedia attachments
- Free open-source with high customizability
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated desktop interface
- Limited applicability to non-biological or legal exhibits
- No native mobile or web-based trial presentation tools
Best For
Natural history museum curators managing specimen collections for research and static exhibits.
Pricing
Free open-source self-hosted version; optional paid consortium membership for hosted services and support starting at $500/year based on collection size.
Conclusion
Evaluating the top tools, TMS emerges as the clear leader, offering enterprise-grade efficiency for museums managing collections and exhibits. PastPerfect follows closely, a user-friendly pick for small to mid-sized teams, while KE EMu stands out with its robust multimedia and research support. Each tool brings distinct strengths, ensuring there’s a fit for diverse needs, though TMS rises above as the top choice.
Kickstart smoother exhibit workflows by trying TMS—its suite of features, from cataloging to loan management, is designed to keep your exhibitions seamless and impactful.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison