Fast Forward is an analysis of regional trends in museum performance. This developed out of the creation of the regional museum strategy 'First Principles' in 1996. Since 1996 research has been undertaken to track, analyse and compare how museums are performing. The current methodology was adopted in 2000 with the publication of the first 'Fast Forward Update'.

We are as always indebted to the museums of the West Midlands for their continued contribution to and support for the development of this publication.