A Design and Development of Community Products in Nongtoom Sub-District Phu Kheow District Chaiyaphum Province

Abstract

This research article aims to study the design and development of community products in Nong Tum Subdistrict, Phu Kheow District, Chaiyaphum Province, to enhance community product development and to establish a model for promoting the value and significance of these products. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative research and participatory action research (PAR). It is grounded in product development concepts, value-added strategies, and Buddhist principles to guide the process. The research was conducted in Nong Tum Subdistrict, Phu Kheow District, Chaiyaphum Province. The target group and key informants included members of the community enterprise group specializing in traditional natural-dyed fabric weaving in Ban Non Salao, Village No. 6, selected through purposive sampling. Three research tools were used semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using content analysis and presented in a descriptive format. The research findings reveal that:
1. The community enterprise of the Natural Dye Weaving Group in Ban Non Salao, Village No. 6, Nong Tum Subdistrict, Phu Kheow District, Chaiyaphum Province, consists of middle-aged women and elderly members. They pass down traditional weaving knowledge and fabric design from generation to generation, preserving traditional Khid patterns while also creating new designs. The group continuously develops a diverse range of products based on customer demand and seeks systematic knowledge in product design, and marketing along with support from governmental and private sectors, to ensure the sustainability of the Khid weaving profession.
2. The development of community products was carried out through a participatory brainstorming process between the community group and the research team, leading to three key approaches: (1) Creating new products from traditional patterns, such as Khid shoulder bags featuring Lai Kho Chao Fa. (2) Developing new products from the unique patterns that reflect community identity, such as Khid shoulder bags with the Lai Hae Nak Hod design. (3) Innovating new products that highlight community identity which is the Khid fabric with the Lai Phra That Nong Sam Muen design, framed as wall art decorations a souvenir.
3. The model for enhancing the value and significance of community products integrates traditional and cultural heritage. It begins with recognizing the importance of Khid weaving knowledge, preserving cultural traditions, and transforming them into meaningful products that embody community identity. Marketing strategies are employed to add value through online dissemination and public relations efforts.
The knowledge derived from this research is the product development process for enhancing the value and significance of products, known as the AGPIAI model, consisting of six steps: (1) Self and Customer Analysis (2) Clear Goal Identification (3) Pride and Strategic Commitment (4) Integrity and Determined Execution (5) Continuous Evaluation and Attention to Detail (6) Reflection, Adjustment, and Improvement. This framework integrates the Four Iddhipāda (Paths to Success) and the Deming Cycle (PDCA) to enhance the value and significance of the products.