A new study prepared for the European Commission details how discoverability has become the critical factor determining which cultural works can rise above the digital noise and be noticed, accessed, and engaged with by audiences.

The research, commissioned under the EU Work Plan for Culture 2023–2026, examines how European cultural content is discovered and accessed in today’s digital environment.  The study introduces a new conceptual framework for understanding discoverability in the digital era, where interconnected elements work together to determine which works reach audiences and which remain hidden.

A focus on music and books

It provides detailed analysis of the music and book sectors, with insights into other cultural and creative sectors and industries affected by the increasing use of platforms and algorithms. The study analyses how diverse European cultural works compete for attention in an online environment where platforms, algorithms, curation, and recommender systems play a gatekeeper role. It also identifies new challenges and areas for policy action to improve the discoverability of European culture online.

Policy recommendations in six areas

The study proposes a comprehensive set of policy recommendations structured around six areas: 

• collaboration and governance
• data and knowledge
• digital skills training for creatives
• audience-focused measures
• research and innovation; and
• funding for European content