Fundamentals

Planning for closure should begin as soon as the exhibition opens. This stage covers removing the exhibits from display (deinstallation), checking, packing and returning them to the lenders. It includes dismantling stands and display cases, and removing any false walls, electrical work or building that was specially made for the exhibition.

Communication is important, both with the exhibition team and with lenders and transporters. A schedule that sets out the order in which items will be taken down, checked and packed should be agreed. There should also be a transport schedule so that everyone knows when each individual object will be collected. Roles and responsibilities should be clear. Adequate time must be assigned to allow exhibits to be treated with care. There should be the same attention to detail as during installation. Everyone should be conscious of security at all times.

Stage Eight is also the time to assemble any information that should be kept. This could include visitor statistics, press reviews, photographs and printed materials. Reports and statistics can be sent to lenders and any funding bodies. Materials and information should be sent to the organization's archive for preservation.

Planning

Deinstallation always takes less time than installation. The objects are familiar and there are none of the unforeseen challenges and decisions that occurred on unpacking. This means there can be a tendency to get exhibitions down and out as quickly as possible. There is often time pressure if another exhibition is coming in or if the space has to be returned to its previous function. It is important, therefore, to allow adequate time for the operation to be undertaken professionally and safely. Don't forget to factor in how long it will take to dismantle any build. Building work can't begin until all the objects have been safely removed from the exhibition space. If this is not possible, pack them securely and remove them to another part of the building.

Schedule

There should be an overall schedule for the entire period of deinstallation, as well as a daily plan detailing exactly what is happening, when, and who are involved. Since there may be time constraints, it is important to monitor if everything is going according to the schedule. Any slippage from the plan can be spotted, assessed and corrected as part of general risk management.