Heritage organisations and condition surveys

Purpose This paper aims to examine the role and purpose of condition surveys used by heritage organisations. Design/methodology/approach The study is based on the analysis of questionnaires and interviews with a range of leading heritage organisations in the UK. Findings The research suggests that the management of maintenance, and specifically the implementation of condition surveys, lacked an explicit underlying strategic basis. The strategic opportunities implied by the development of conservation planning methodologies had not been translated into management practice and had not impacted on the implementation of condition surveys. Practical implications Further investigation into the organisational and process barriers to utilising conservation plans in developing integrated management of the built cultural heritage is needed. Originality/value This paper will be of use to practitioners and academics interested in appropriate and sustainable maintenance and management of the built cultural heritage. © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limite