The Development of Occupational Skill of the Informal Employment by Using Technology and Innovation from Bamboo Wickerwork Product by Participation of Network Party in Banpueng Sub-district, Nakhon Phanom Province

Abstract

This research aimed to develop occupational skills and production models for bamboo basketry among informal workers in Ban Phueng Subdistrict, Nakhon Phanom Province. It also sought to enhance productivity and reduce production costs through the application of knowledge, technology, and innovation. The study employed a participatory research approach, allowing community members to be actively involved in planning, setting research objectives, data collection, data analysis, interpretation, and the improvement of operational plans. The process emphasized collaboration, where community members and researchers worked together, and researchers respected the perspectives of the participants.

The findings, derived from participatory workshops involving informal workers—primarily farmers from Wang Krasae Village (Villages 3, 4, and 16)—along with representatives from the Ban Phueng Subdistrict Administrative Organization and the Nakhon Phanom Provincial Skill Development Office, revealed an appropriate model for developing bamboo basketry products to meet market demand. The traditional fish baskets were diversified into a wider range of products better aligned with market needs, such as snack trays for meetings, coasters, and small bamboo containers. These products demonstrated consistent market demand and could be sold year-round. Additionally, the study identified key production challenges, particularly delays caused by labor-intensive processes, including bamboo cutting, splitting, and weaving preparation, all of which relied solely on manual labor. As a result, production capacity was limited to approximately 40–50 fish baskets per day, typically sold at 80 baht per 100 pieces. Moreover, prolonged storage in humid conditions often led to mold growth. To address these issues, a development plan integrating technology and innovation based on local wisdom in bamboo craftsmanship was implemented through participatory workshops. The outcomes included: (1) a safe and efficient bamboo cutting machine capable of cutting 10–20 bamboo poles per hour, depending on the operator’s skill; (2) an improved bamboo sliver-making machine that produces one sliver in less than two seconds; and (3) a newly designed smoking kiln for bamboo products, capable of producing light, medium, and dark color finishes within 90–180 minutes. These innovations significantly improved production efficiency and product quality, thereby enhancing the economic potential of the community.