MANAGEMENT OF TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS IN ESCAPE ROOMS

Abstract

The article examines the management of technological innovations in escape rooms as a rapidly developing segment of the modern leisure and entertainment industry. The study emphasizes that the dynamics of this market are driven by the integration of advanced technologies, including virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), holographic projections, sensor systems, robotics, smart locks, and artificial intelligence. These innovations reshape the format of escape rooms, creating a higher level of immersion, interactivity, and player engagement. The theoretical foundations and historical evolution of escape rooms are analyzed, with a focus on the transition from simple puzzle-based formats to technologically advanced, multimedia-driven environments. Special attention is paid to managerial aspects of innovation implementation: strategic decision-making, investment requirements, risk management, and the need for continuous updating of technical equipment. International experience demonstrates different models of development: Japan emphasizes cultural integration and multimedia storytelling, the United States highlights large-scale immersive environments supported by robotics and AI, while European countries focus on combining historical and cultural themes with interactive technologies. Ukrainian practice reflects gradual but creative integration of VR/AR, sensor-based systems, and narrative originality, including the use of escape rooms in educational and corporate contexts for developing teamwork, communication, and critical thinking skills. The research highlights both opportunities and challenges of innovation management in escape rooms. On the one hand, new technologies expand the functionality of escape rooms beyond entertainment, transforming them into tools for training, business communication, and even therapeutic practices. On the other hand, financial costs, technical failures, and data security issues represent significant risks for managers and operators. The article concludes that technological innovations significantly change the nature of escape rooms and define their competitiveness on the global market. Effective management of these innovations requires balancing creativity with financial sustainability, ensuring technical reliability, and protecting user experience. Escape rooms are evolving into multifunctional platforms for leisure, education, and social interaction, making innovation management a strategic factor for the industry’s future development.