Retrospective Analysis of Ghanaian Traditional Weaving Industry through the Lens of Tom Kelley’s Design Framework

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Sunyani Technical University, Sunyani, Ghana.

2 Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.

Abstract

Tom Kelley’s design framework is a popular and versatile design thinking model employed by various industries
in solving major design problems and challenges. The Ghanaian weaving industry as one of the creative industries
is believed to be facing challenges with innovation and sustainability in modern business. This hypothesis triggered the
need to undertake an analytical study of the industry using Tom Kelley’s design framework (DVF design thinking model)
to assess its waste reduction, value addition, product-market speed, and profit maximization. A desk research was
conducted to gather literature from credible sources to identify gaps in the industry and to recommend feasible and viable solutions to improve the industry. The results reveal that the three dimensions of the model can be dependent or
independently applied in the industry. Furthermore, it unearthed the strong interrelation between feasibility and viability
as the major pointers in solving design problems in the Ghanaian weaving industry where research and technological
advancement are needed. From the study, it is suggested the industry should embrace technology and innovations in the
production line in order to sustain the Ghanaian weaving industry in the modern business landscape. 

Keywords

Main Subjects


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