A Development of Commercial Potential of Contemporary Brass Products Founded on Traditional Thai Wisdom, Ban-Takrayang, Talaechubsorn Sub-District, Muang District, Lopburi Province

Abstract

               The objectives of this research was to develop commercial potential of brass production founded on traditional Thai wisdom at Ban-Thakrayang, Talaechubson  sub-district, Muang district, Lopburi province. This research and development applied participatory action research by synergizing three parties of 25 individuals from: Thepsatri Rajabhat University (academics), Ban-Thakrayang traditional brass production groups (social groups) and public and private sectors (supporting units). Data collection included in-depth interviews,  non-participatory observation, questionnaires, focus group discussions and PDCA Deming Cycle. Data were analyzed in terms of descriptive statistics and content analysis.   

               Results and goals accomplished were development of commercial potential of brass production founded on traditional Thai wisdom at Ban-Thakrayang by using 9 elements of Business Model Canvas (BMC). Development of 3 new contemporary brass products founded on traditional Thai wisdom of Ban-Thakrayang for diversified consumers and purposes: 1) King Narai Palace Gates: They are business name card and pen holder sets, portraying a unique King Narai architecture. They are perfect for office tables,  2) Monkey Bottle Openers: Lopburi is a monkey city so a monkey bottle opener represents the attachment of Lopburi people to monkeys. It is an ideal souvenir to bring back home to friends and loved ones when you visit Lopburi, and  3) Four - armed Hanuman statuettes: This brass product, a symbol of Lopburi, designed and casted to portray legendary Hanuman’s strength, bravery and faithfulness who volunteered to fight for virtue, and later, became ruler of Lopburi. Each statuette is placed on a velvet pedestal with a glass cover. It is an ideal gift for returning thanks to customers or serves as precious souvenir for visitors who pay a visit to office space. These products can generate opportunities and market channels for contemporary Ban-Thakrayang brass products founded on traditional Thai wisdom. The marketing channels included coordination between business groups, public and private sectors, e-marketing endeavor, exhibitions of products and academic presentations of research results. This results in the use of Thai wisdom, the traditional brass casting of Ban-Thakrayang, to develop contemporary brass products that have commercial potential to the creative economy.