Abstract:
The purpose of this research was to study the communication process in managing and factors of maintaining Bridge of Merit Project of Wat Suankeaw, Nonthaburi province by means of qualitative research implemented by non-participation, observation and documentary studies. In-depth interview with 27 key informants were used in this study. The results of the research are as follows: the objectives of the Bridge of Merit Project are; (1) to provide the information, (2) to generate donations, (3) to generate purchase of product, (4) to encourage the target group to participate in helps and support program, (5) to thank the donors and (6) to monitor the operation by members. In this project, Pra Payom and Suankeaw foundation play a key role in communicating to various groups of receiver; (1) public, (2) target group, both members and people who have an interest in the project, and (3) networks. Many communication strategies were adopted through various channels; for example, Communicate with public, using speech and demonstrations by Pra Payom, and specific media by the Suankeaw foundation. Communicate with target group within Pra Payom members, by setting up a meeting between committees and members, field examination, group discussion and monitoring through communication. Communicate with target group among people who have an interest in the project by giving advice, facilitating the donations, providing information to purchasers and encouraging the low-incomes and disables persons to receive helps and supports. Communicate with target group within Suankeaw members, unofficially face-to-face communication using polite language and correct tone, regardless of hierarchy or social status. In addition, the communication strategies used in this project also increased the level of participation of these followings in the communication process. The program has (1) allowed the media to set up an interview, publish in the column, provide free information, or physically visit and observe the operation. (2) incorporated a warm welcome and facilitated the organization by giving a presentation. (3) let the public spread the news, announcements and generate feedbacks. The factors of maintaining Bridge of Merit Project are composed of both communication and support. Communication factors can be divided into (1) Senders factor including the communication ability, reliability, social status, behavior and Pra payom communication style. (2) Message factors include fact communication and reliability. (3) Channel factor includes opportunity of utilizing potential channels and various communication channel. (4) Receiver factors include willingness to participate in helps and supports program, as well as donations. The support factors can be divided into (1) Product factors including price, quality, variety and availability. (2) Population factors including size of low-income group, disabled and unemployment, wants and needs of consuming new products, demand from buyers, incorporation from donors. (3) Media factors include support from media to provide public relation, spread the word, and point out the benefits of the program. (4) Location factors include accessibility, attractiveness and availability of shops and supermarkets. (5) Other factors include uniqueness of the project itself