Area Based Development Research Journal

Research Management Mechanisms and Processes for Driving Innovation Communities: A Case Study of Research Frameworks for Sustainable Development and Learning Innovation Communities

2026-05-27T10:12:47+07:00

Background and Rationale: A synthesis of lessons learned from area-based research management between 2007–2019 under the Thailand Research Fund (TRF) reveals that despite generating significant local knowledge, management mechanisms faced major structural constraints. Operations were primarily “project-based,” focusing on immediate fixes or isolated local issues. These projects often prioritized short-term outputs tied to funding cycles, leading to a lack of continuity, poor integration, and an inability to scale up into systemic provincial changes once funding ended. Key challenges included the absence of an “Academic Node” to systematically bridge universities with development partners and a shortage of “Community Innovators” capable of managing innovation independently. This reliance on external researchers resulted in low sustainability and an inability to tangibly reduce inequality.

Objectives: This research aimed to (1)synthesize and design a new area-based research management mechanism that transcends previous structural limitations; (2)analyze the process of driving "Innovation Communities" through the cultivation of community innovators and the application of Appropriate Technology; and (3) extract lessons learned from successful collaborative mechanisms between higher education institutions and local stakeholders under the support of the Program Management Unit for Area-based Development under the research frameworks “Community Innovation for Sustainable Development” and “Learning Innovation Communities” during the period 2021–2024.

Methodology: This research uses a qualitative research methodology based on case study synthesis. Data were collected through document analysis of research project and implementation reports of both the research projects and the coordination unit, data derived from the research monitoring and evaluation process, and synthesized lessons learned from knowledge-exchange and learning processes involving researchers, communities, and relevant stakeholders. All data were subjected to content analysis to identify patterns, mechanisms, and success factors in area-based research management.

Results and Finding: The findings indicate that shifting from “Project Management” to “Area-based Management” enables more efficient research integration. Universities successfully elevated their roles from subject matter experts to “Academic Nodes,” effectively linking local government authorities and the private sector to support research initiatives. Regarding the development of community innovators, the study found that “natural leaders” could be transformed into innovators with scientific analytical skills. This led to diverse “Community Innovations,” such as smart agriculture, product processing using appropriate technology, and natural resource management aligned with the circular economy. These innovations achieved higher adoption rates than past research because they were co-designed with the community from the outset.

Outcomes, Impact, and Sustainability: The research successfully developed high-potential community innovators who serve as vital catalysts for local development beyond the funding period. In terms of impact, target communities reported increased income through reduced production costs and value-added products. Furthermore, the creation of "Learning Spaces" has strengthened communal bonds. The established collaborative mechanisms have been integrated into Local Administrative Organization development plans, ensuring continuous budgetary and personnel support. The most significant shift is the transition from “Recipient Communities” to “Learning Innovation Communities"-self-managing entities capable of navigating future changes and achieving truly sustainable grassroots development in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Knowledge Management of Khmer Handicraft Wisdom in Thai Communities: Ban Yang Village, Surin Province, Thailand

2026-05-27T10:12:39+07:00

Background: The indigenous craft wisdom of the Thai-Khmer community in Ban Yang, Surin Province, Thailand is deeply embedded in life-cycle rituals, ancestral beliefs, and everyday cultural practices. This knowledge represents an important component of the community’s cultural heritage and identity, reflecting accumulated experiences and skills transmitted across generations. However, the community currently faces structural challenges that weaken the continuity of this knowledge, including low household income, agricultural dependency, labor outmigration, and a declining number of young successors. As a result, indigenous knowledge had increasingly become fragmented, tacit, and unevenly transmitted across generations, despite its continued cultural significance. Much of this knowledge remains undocumented and is mainly transmitted through oral traditions and practical engagement within community rituals and daily activities. In response, the community recognized the need to collectively organize, document and transmit its craft wisdom through a community-led knowledge management process, aiming to strengthen intergenerational learning and enable the sustainable use of indigenous knowledge in both educational and community contexts.

Objectives: This research aimed to develop a participatory knowledge management process for documenting and transmitting Thai-Khmer handicraft wisdom in Surin Province. The specific objectives of this research were: (1) to study the historical background, community context, and lifestyle of the Thai-Khmer community in Surin Province; (2) to examine indigenous handicraft wisdom related to life-cycle rituals practiced within the Thai-Khmer community; and (3) to develop knowledge management guidelines for producing a handbook entitled “Thai-Khmer Handicraft Wisdom in Surin Province: Community Dimensions, Development, and Sustainability” to support learning in the Social Studies, Religion, and Culture subject area.

Methodology: This research employed a qualitative ethnographic approach combined with participatory knowledge management processes. The study was conducted in communities within the Surin cultural landscape where traditional handicraft practices related to ritual activities are still maintained and practiced by local artisans. Data were collected through multiple qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews, participant observation, field documentation, and group discussions. A total of twenty-five local artisans and knowledge holders were purposively selected as key informants based on their expertise and long-term experience in producing ritual-related handicrafts. These artisans represented different craft traditions, including weaving, bamboo craft, ritual decoration, and ceremonial object production. The knowledge management process followed the SECI model (Socialization, Externalization, Combination, Internalization) consisting of four stages: socialization, externalization, combination, and internalization. Initially, tacit knowledge from artisans was collected through interviews and observation of craft production processes. This knowledge was then documented, organized, and categorized according to different ritual contexts and life-cycle ceremonies. Based on the collected information, a practical handicraft handbook was developed. The handbook presents explanations of materials, tools, production processes, and cultural meanings associated with each craft item. Training workshops were organized for youth participants, including demonstrations and hands-on practice. Pre- and post-training assessments were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the handbook and the learning activities.

Results and Findings: The findings indicate that local handicrafts play a crucial role in supporting ritual practices and maintaining cultural continuity within the Surin cultural landscape. Various types of handicraft items were identified as integral components of ritual activities, including woven containers for ceremonial offerings, bamboo ritual structures, decorative craft objects, ceremonial trays, and symbolic items used in life-cycle ceremonies. The knowledge collection process successfully documented important information regarding raw materials, production techniques, cultural meanings, and ritual contexts associated with each handicraft item. The study also revealed that most handicraft knowledge is experiential and traditionally transmitted through observation and practice rather than through formal educational systems. The classification of handicrafts according to life-cycle rituals helped clarify the cultural functions of different craft items within community ceremonies. For example, certain woven objects are specifically associated with wedding ceremonies, while particular decorative craft elements are used in ordination rituals and funeral rites. The developed handbook organized this knowledge into a clear and accessible format, including visual illustrations and step-by-step production explanations. Training workshops using the handbook enabled youth participants to better understand both the cultural significance and practical techniques of local handicrafts. Evaluation results indicated that participants demonstrated increased knowledge and improved basic craft skills after participating in the training activities.

Outcome, Impact and Sustainability: This research resulted in the documentation of local handicraft knowledge related to ritual practices in the Surin cultural landscape and the development of a practical handbook for knowledge transmission. These outputs contribute to the preservation of local cultural heritage by transforming tacit knowledge into a structured learning resource. The project also strengthened collaboration between local artisans and youth participants, encouraging intergenerational knowledge exchange within the community. The handbook can be applied in community learning programs, local schools, and cultural development initiatives. In the long term, the documentation and transmission of handicraft knowledge can support cultural preservation, community identity, creative cultural industries, and cultural tourism. Continued cooperation among communities, educational institutions, and cultural organizations will be essential for ensuring the sustainability of these initiatives.

Business Model for Creative Products Based on Cultural Capital: A Case Study of the Wiang Bua Community Enterprise, Phayao Province, Thailand

2026-05-27T10:12:43+07:00

Background: The Wiang Bua Community Enterprise, located in Mae Ka Subdistrict, Phayao Province, Thailand, is a culturally rich community with over 700 years of traditional pottery craftsmanship, reflecting strong cultural capital and local wisdom. However, the community faces structural challenges, including fragmented knowledge management, limited business capabilities, and restricted access to contemporary markets. As a result, cultural capital has not been effectively transformed into economic value. This situation reflects a gap between cultural potential and practical economic development, highlighting the need for an integrated approach that combines cultural capital, participatory processes, and business model innovation to support sustainable community development.

Objectives: This study aimed to develop a creative product business model based on cultural capital and local wisdom in the Wiang Bua community. The specific objectives were: (1) to examine the potential of cultural capital and local wisdom for creative product development; (2) to develop a business model that aligns with the cultural context of the community; and (3) to evaluate the application of the business model in enhancing economic value and sustainable community development.

Methodology: This research employed Participatory Action Research (PAR) in combination with Developmental Research. A total of 39 purposively selected informants—including community members, artisans, housewives, community leaders, and youth—were involved in the study. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participatory observation. Data credibility was ensured through triangulation and member checking. The research process consisted of four stages: (1) assessment of cultural capital and local wisdom; (2) participatory process and development of creative products; (3) development of a business model using the Business Model Canvas (BMC); and (4) evaluation using the Social Return on Investment (SROI) framework.

Results and Findings: The findings revealed that the community successfully developed five types of creative product prototypes: (1) Wiang Bua Ceramic Lamp; (2) Wiang Bua Clay Coffee Cup; (3) From Clay Fragments to Heart: Ceramic Beads Jewelry; (4) Handcrafted Floral Offerings and Decorative Items; and (5) Wiang Bua Banana Chips. Following the implementation of the business model, the number of income-generating households increased from 13 to 19, while the average monthly income increased from 3,000 to 4,500 Baht (approximately 93 to 140 USD). In addition, three new occupational groups were established, and a community-based creative economy learning center was initiated. The SROI analysis indicated that the project generated a total social value of 220,000 Baht (approximately 6840 USD) from an investment of 100,000 Baht (approximately 3110 USD), resulting in an SROI ratio of 2.2. The analysis was conducted through stakeholder identification, outcome mapping, financial proxy estimation, and adjustments for deadweight and attribution.

Outcome, Impacts and Sustainability: The study demonstrates multidimensional impacts across economic, social, cultural, and sustainability dimensions. Economically, the community achieved continuous income generation and reduced dependency on external funding. Socially, participatory processes strengthened community cohesion, promoted intergenerational learning, and enhanced entrepreneurial capacity. Culturally, the project contributed to the revitalization of traditional pottery knowledge and local cultural practices, reinforcing community identity. In terms of sustainability, the developed business model can be adapted to other communities with similar contexts, while the establishment of a community learning center ensures continuous knowledge transfer. This study provides empirical evidence that integrating cultural capital with participatory processes and business innovation can effectively drive sustainable development, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 8 and SDG 11).

Cashew Nut Value Chain Development: A Case Study of Tha Mueang Subdistrict, Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand

2026-05-27T10:12:41+07:00

Background: Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand continues to face structural poverty, especially among smallholder farming households whose incomes remain unstable and largely dependent on primary agricultural production. In Tha Mueang Subdistrict, Don Mot Daeng District, more than 25,000 cashew trees are cultivated, producing over 112 tons of raw cashew nuts each year. Despite this strong production base, most farmers still sell their harvest as raw materials through middlemen. Farmers also have limited opportunities to organize collectively and often lack knowledge in farm management, soil improvement, and product value addition. As a result, average productivity remains only about 103 kilograms per rai (approximately 644 kilograms per hectare), which is significantly lower than the provincial average. This short and weak value chain has become a major constraint preventing poor households from increasing their income. For this reason, this research focused on strengthening the cashew value chain through a community-based participatory process in order to improve household income and support stronger local economic development.

Objectives: This study aimed to examine how the cashew value chain in Tha Mueang Subdistrict, Don Mot Daeng District, Ubon Ratchathani Province could be strengthened to improve access to livelihoods and increase income among cashew-growing farmers and poor households. The study explored the existing structure of the value chain and the key constraints affecting income generation through a participatory analysis process with farmers and community enterprise members. At the same time, the research supported improvements in production practices and product value addition through collective learning and cooperation within the community enterprise. The goal was to develop a more inclusive value chain that benefits poor households and strengthens the local grassroots economy.

Methodology: This research applied a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, with members of the Lam Sebok Muang Mueang Cashew Community Enterprise playing a central role in identifying problems, designing solutions, and implementing activities. Government agencies and academic institutions provided technical support throughout the process. The work was carried out through three main processes. First, the project strengthened community enterprise members through participatory discussions that linked production challenges with income-related problems. Members jointly analyzed the cashew value chain and worked together to identify solutions. Knowledge-sharing workshops and training sessions were organized with experts from the Faculty of Agriculture, Ubon Ratchathani University. These activities included soil analysis, compost production, systematic orchard management, and irrigation system installation. Peer learning among members also helped reduce production costs and improve productivity per rai. For the next process, the project supported cashew processing activities through the development of the SREBOK brand. Raw cashew nuts were upgraded into processed products such as herb-roasted cashew nuts, salted roasted cashews, and cashew cookies. Packaging was designed, market testing was conducted, and a business plan for cashew cookies was developed to strengthen entrepreneurial skills among members. Finally, the project expanded collaboration networks with government agencies and educational institutions to support the long-term development of a more complete and sustainable value chain.

Results and Findings: The study found that strengthening the cashew value chain through a participatory community process created improvements across all stages of the value chain—from upstream production to midstream organization and downstream marketing. At the upstream level, community enterprise members improved orchard management through soil analysis, appropriate fertilizer application, varietal improvement, and irrigation system development. As a result, 39 model learning plots were established as shared learning spaces. At the midstream level, the formation of a community enterprise enabled members to set a purchasing price for cashew nuts that was 3 Baht (approximately 0.1 USD) per kilogram higher than the price offered by middlemen, increasing farmers’ bargaining power. At the downstream level, new processed products were successfully developed under the SREBOK brand, including herbal roasted cashews, salted roasted cashews, and cashew cookies. Packaging improvements and market testing helped the community increase product value and expand marketing channels in practical ways. Following the 2024 harvest season, income among 74 poor member households increased from 6,432 to 7,183 Baht (approximately 200 to 223 USD) per month, representing an increase of 11.69%. Other members also benefited from improved technical knowledge, higher selling prices, and stronger bargaining power when dealing with traders.

Outcomes, Impact, and Sustainability: The development of the cashew value chain in Tha Mueang Subdistrict produced important outcomes at the household, group, and community levels. These included improved production capacity among farmers, stronger community enterprise management, increased income shares for poor households within the value chain, and stronger cooperation among local development partners. The collective learning process strengthened both social capital and human capital within the community, enabling members to become more self-reliant and better prepared to expand future economic activities. At the policy level, the Tha Mueang Subdistrict Administrative Organization integrated support for the Lam Sebok Mueang Muang Cashew Community Enterprise into its five-year local development plan. The enterprise will receive annual financial support of 100,000 Baht (approximately 3110 USD) from fiscal years 2025 to 2027, helping ensure the continuity and sustainability of the initiative.

Innovation Development of Local Resources-Based High-Protein Greater Bandicoot Rat Feed for Sustainable Grassroots Economic in Uttaradit Province, Thailand

2026-05-27T10:12:45+07:00

Background: The farming of greater bandicoot rats (Bandicota indica) has emerged as a novel alternative economic livestock that elevates the grassroots economy in Uttaradit province, Thailand. However, farmers face high production costs, with feed accounting for over 70% of the total expenses. Most farmers substitute with commercial swine or poultry feed due to its accessibility, but this comes at a high and continuously rising cost. Meanwhile, although the community has agricultural resources such as field corn available year-round, its direct utilization lacks nutritional balance, particularly protein. This results in poor growth performance, inferior feed conversion ratios, and high cost burdens, thereby disincentivizing commercial expansion. Applying science and technology to upgrade local raw materials into high-quality animal feed is an urgent necessity to ensure occupational stability.

Objectives: This research aimed to (1) develop an innovative high-protein animal feed for greater bandicoot rats by adding value to local resources (corn) through yeast fermentation technology (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) (2) evaluate and compare the growth performance, production costs, and economic returns of post-weaned greater bandicoot rats fed the innovative diet and (3) strengthen the stability of the community-level greater bandicoot rat farming system by establishing a learning process that elevates farmers into community innovators.

Methodology: The study integrated applied science with participatory community processes via a Learning and Innovation Platform (LIP). Ground corn was fermented with yeast to synthesize single-cell protein, resulting in the innovative Bio-Yeast Corn (BYC). An in vivo trial was conducted using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) across 6 model network farms (blocks). The experiment consisted of 2 dietary treatments: a control group (commercial swine feed, 18% crude protein) and a treatment group (BYC-mixed diet, 18% crude protein). Each treatment had 3 replicates of 1 cement pit (80 cm diameter) per farm. Post-weaned greater bandicoot rats (mixed sex, approximately 1 month old, average initial weight 237.22 ± 61.56 g) were stocked at 4 animals per pit for a 42-day period. Feed intake and weight gain were recorded to calculate average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and feed cost per weight gain. Statistical analysis was performed alongside an economic return assessment.

Results and Findings: The model farms revealed that greater bandicoot rats fed the 18% protein BYC diet exhibited significantly higher production performance than the control group, achieving a high average daily gain of 7.08 g/day. This improvement is attributed to the fermentation process, which enhanced palatability and nutrient digestibility. Economically, the BYC diet significantly reduced the feed cost per unit of production (per 1 kg weight gain) (P<0.01), decreasing from 117.86 to 60.41 Baht (approximately 3.65 to 1.87 USD), representing a 48.70% cost reduction. This substantial decrease in costs consequently increased the farmers' return on investment (ROI) from 54.11% to 141.76%, reflecting the innovation's concrete efficacy in solving production cost issues

Outcome, Impacts and Sustainability: The economic outcome is a reduction in cost burden and an increase in return on investment, aligning with the bioeconomy model which aims to create added value from local agricultural materials, reduce the risk from fluctuations in animal feed prices in the market, reduce dependence on external factors, and create a database ready for commercial scaling up at the regional and national levels. As for the social impact, the LIP platform has shifted the paradigm of farmers from "buyers of production inputs" to becoming "Community innovators" capable of producing high-quality animal feed for their own use strengthen the network of greater bandicoot rat farmers and serve as models for technology transfer to other communities. Furthermore, they have a positive environmental impact by promoting the efficient recycling and utilization of local resources according to the principles of sustainable environmental management. Using local raw materials reduces transportation distances, a mechanism that supports the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and mitigates the problem of managing agricultural waste.