Museum of Failure

In the charming city of Helsingborg, Sweden, lies a truly unique and intriguing attraction that flips the conventional museum experience on its head – the Museum of Failure. This extraordinary museum is a celebration of the less successful side of innovation, showcasing a fascinating collection of failed products and services from around the globe. It’s a place where the missteps of the past are not just acknowledged but embraced, offering visitors a rare opportunity to learn from the mistakes that paved the way for future successes.

The Concept Behind the Museum

The brainchild of psychologist and innovation researcher Samuel West, the Museum of Failure was inspired by a visit to the Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, Croatia. West’s vision was to create a space that highlights the critical role of failure in the journey of innovation. With partial funding from the Swedish Innovation Authority (Vinnova), the museum opened its doors on June 7, 2017, in Helsingborg. Although it had a brief stint at Dunkers Kulturhus and later toured internationally, its impact has been profound, sparking conversations about the importance of embracing failure in the pursuit of progress.

A Tour of the Exhibits

The museum’s collection boasts over 150 failed products and services, each with its own story and lesson. As you wander through the exhibits, you’ll encounter a variety of items that range from the quirky to the downright bizarre. From the infamous Apple Newton, an early attempt at a personal digital assistant, to the ill-fated Google Glass, a pair of smart glasses that never quite caught on, each exhibit offers a glimpse into the risky business of innovation. Other notable items include the Bic for Her pen, designed specifically for women, and the N-Gage, Nokia’s unsuccessful attempt to merge a mobile phone with a handheld gaming console.

Learning from Failure

One of the museum’s primary goals is to encourage visitors to see failure as an essential part of the innovation process. Each exhibit is accompanied by detailed explanations that provide context and insight into why the product or service failed. This educational approach helps visitors understand that failure is not something to be feared or avoided but rather a valuable learning experience. By examining these failures, both individuals and organizations can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of innovation and the importance of perseverance.

Interactive and Engaging Experiences

The Museum of Failure is not just about passive observation; it also offers interactive experiences that engage visitors in the process of innovation. One such activity is the Failure Confessional, where visitors are invited to share their own stories of failure. This participatory element adds a personal touch to the museum experience, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding. Additionally, the museum hosts workshops and talks that delve deeper into the themes of failure and innovation, providing valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators.

Iconic Exhibits

Among the many fascinating exhibits, a few stand out for their sheer audacity and the lessons they impart. The Harley-Davidson Cologne, for example, is a testament to the dangers of brand overextension. This ill-conceived product attempted to capitalize on the iconic motorcycle brand’s rugged image but failed to resonate with consumers. Similarly, the Kodak DC-40, an early digital camera, serves as a reminder of the importance of timing and market readiness in the launch of new technologies.

Another intriguing exhibit is the My Friend Cayla talking doll, which was intended to be a high-tech companion for children but raised serious privacy concerns due to its internet connectivity and data collection capabilities. These exhibits, along with many others, offer valuable lessons in market research, consumer behavior, and the ever-evolving landscape of technology.

The Viral Colgate Lasagna

One of the museum’s most talked-about exhibits is the Colgate lasagna, which went viral on social media in 2017. Although its authenticity was later questioned, the exhibit serves as a humorous reminder of the potential pitfalls of brand extension. The idea of a toothpaste company branching out into frozen food products was met with widespread skepticism and amusement, highlighting the importance of brand identity and consumer expectations.

Global Reach and Digital Presence

The Museum of Failure’s impact extends far beyond Helsingborg. In December 2017, a temporary exhibit opened in Los Angeles, bringing the museum’s message to an international audience. The Los Angeles exhibit was housed on Hollywood Boulevard, adding a touch of glamour to the museum’s quirky charm. Subsequent exhibits in Shanghai and Paris further cemented the museum’s global appeal, attracting visitors from all corners of the world.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the museum made its collection available for online viewing, allowing people to explore the exhibits from the comfort of their homes. This digital presence has ensured that the museum’s message of embracing failure continues to reach a wide audience, even in challenging times.

A Celebration of Innovation

The Museum of Failure is more than just a collection of failed products; it’s a celebration of the innovative spirit and the resilience required to push the boundaries of what’s possible. By shining a light on the missteps and mistakes of the past, the museum offers a refreshing perspective on the journey of innovation. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the creative process, entrepreneurship, or simply looking for a unique and thought-provoking experience.

In conclusion, the Museum of Failure in Helsingborg is a testament to the idea that failure is not the end but a stepping stone to success. Its exhibits, interactive experiences, and educational approach make it a fascinating destination for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned innovator, or just curious about the stories behind some of the world’s most infamous failures, the Museum of Failure offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is both entertaining and enlightening.