What is a digital asset management system (DAMS)?

A digital asset management system (DAMS) is a centralized solution that helps you manage, preserve, and share your digital assets. Within museum and cultural institutions, it’s a critical tool for overseeing digital content across diverse teams and functions.

At its core, digital asset management is both a platform and a practice area. It supports functions like branding, production, collections management, and rights management, unifying these elements into a cohesive, accessible environment.

What goes into a DAM?

A DAM solution serves as a repository for various media files—images, videos, documents, audio, and more. Using metadata and taxonomy, it enables users to group, search, and distribute content easily, enhancing both organization and discoverability.

A robust DAM system should offer ample storage and flexible functionality to support your organization’s goals.

Many DAM platforms provide role-based permissions to control asset access and security, making it easier for teams to collaborate without risk of duplication or loss of consistency. Some organizations even designate DAM managers, or “digital librarians,” to oversee assets and ensure they align with brand and institutional standards.

Who should use a DAM?

Digital asset management systems benefit all departments—from collections and operations to marketing.

By centralizing assets, DAM can break down silos and create a unified space where everyone has access to the content they need.

With the right platform, teams can share presentations, graphics, videos, and other assets, while managers can control access to sensitive materials through user permissions.

Why is DAM important for museums or cultural institutions?

Having a single source for all assets supports operational efficiency, consistent storytelling, and effective audience engagement within museums and cultural institutions.

Without a DAM, some organizations either manage assets manually or use multiple, disconnected DAMs across departments, which can lead to duplication and inconsistent management.

With a DAM in place, teams can access images, documents, and media essential to their roles, helping the institution share its story and fulfill its mission—whether it’s promoting an exhibition, sharing content on social media, or publishing an artifact’s history in a membership magazine.

Enhance your digital asset management

Having an organized, centralized repository for your assets are key for you to be able to tell new stories and engage with audiences. Reach out to learn more about how Terentia’s platform can help you get there.