Gift Includes Software Upgrades that Enhance the Museum’s Technology Infrastructure

BOSTON, MA (April 7, 2014)—The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), has announced it has received a software grant worth more than $1.5 million from the Microsoft Corporation. The first fine arts software grant in New England, it will help establish a more robust computing platform for the Museum through a comprehensive package of software licenses and upgrades. The grant will have an impact on many aspects of Museum operations, providing a strong foundation for daily technology needs and future projects. Included are upgrades to critical MFA systems such as the Museum’s database of nearly half a million works of art. As one of the earliest encyclopedic museums to publish information about its permanent collection in a searchable online database, the MFA will now be positioned to continue the process of cataloging and digitizing art objects ranging from ancient Egyptian mummies to contemporary works.

“We are grateful for Microsoft’s generous grant and for their commitment to supporting the arts in Boston,” said Malcolm Rogers, Ann and Graham Gund Director at the MFA. “This grant will allow us to implement the latest Microsoft technology across a range of departments and enables the Museum to improve our core business functions for the betterment of the Museum and its collection, staff and visitors.” 

“Microsoft has a commitment to serving the needs of communities worldwide.  We also believe that communities thrive and grow when they cultivate the mind and spirit through world-class, diverse and accessible art,” said Craig Hodges, General Manager for Microsoft's Northeast Enterprise and Partner Group.  “We are delighted to help the MFA enrich and inspire the Greater Boston community.”

The Microsoft grant addresses Museum priorities such as business intelligence software—supporting data on visitor satisfaction and membership—and upgrades to email applications, servers, desktop software and operating systems. Many Museum systems, including those that schedule events and track attendance, donors and gifts, will have access to the latest Microsoft technology. Additional improvements included in the grant affect a fleet of over 1,000 computers that can now be upgraded to the latest versions of Microsoft Windows, Office, Sharepoint and anti-virus software, allowing the Museum to stay current with the Microsoft platform across all departments—from the Museum shops and ticketing stations to the conservation laboratories. These projects lay the foundation for future improvements at the MFA and overhaul behind-the-scenes functions that are at the core of the Museum’s infrastructure.

The grant has been finalized, and the MFA’s information and technology teams are in the process of implementing improvements throughout the Museum.

“Crucial components of our technology foundation are based on Microsoft software,” said Tom Catalini, Senior Director of Information Systems & Technology at the MFA. “This grant will allow the MFA to strengthen and expand that foundation across the Museum.”

Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), is recognized for the quality and scope of its encyclopedic collection, which includes an estimated 450,000 objects.  The Museum’s collection is made up of: Art of the Americas; Art of Europe; Contemporary Art; Art of Asia, Oceania, and Africa; Art of the Ancient World; Prints, Drawings, and Photographs; Textile and Fashion Arts; and Musical Instruments. Open seven days a week, the MFA’s hours are Saturday through Tuesday, 10 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.; and Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 9:45 p.m.  Admission (which includes one repeat visit within 10 days) is $25 for adults and $23 for seniors and students age 18 and older, and includes entry to all galleries and special exhibitions. Admission is free for University Members and youths age 17 and younger on weekdays after 3 p.m., weekends, and Boston Public Schools holidays; otherwise $10. Wednesday nights after 4 p.m. admission is by voluntary contribution (suggested donation $25). MFA Members are always admitted for free. The MFA’s multi-media guide is available at ticket desks and the Sharf Visitor Center for $5, members; $6, non-members; and $4, youths. The Museum is closed on New Year’s Day, Patriots’ Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. For more information, visit or call 617.267.9300. The MFA is located on the Avenue of the Arts at 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115.

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