Kidh Fabric: Product Development for Community Business Reinforcement

This research, Kidh fabric: product development for community business reinforcement was conducted with three main aims: 1) to study Kidh fabric history in northeastern Thailand; 2) to study problems and solutions related to processed fabric products; and 3) to study fabric product pattern design development for community business reinforcement. This qualitative study used a purposive random sampling technique, with samples including people involved with Tai Dam fabric products. Data were collected through structured interview, observation, focus group discussion and work shop.In addition, data reliability and validation tests were conducted with a triangulation method. The results show that Kidh Fabric production processes from three community business groups had the same points in keeping their unique designs and purposes to improve their own business and marketing. There needs to be coordination between community members in the production and design processes, as well as to increase product value by using new knowledge and technology. In conclusion, to develop Kidh fabric products for community reinforcement, all three communities need more support and cooperation from government units, private organization and community leaders. Moreover, these communities businesses need more knowledge and technological support to improve their production process, marketing, personalities in order to transform their community production units into strong and stable business groups.