Abstract:
This research aimed to drive the local economy through creative tourism by identifying community identity, developing local products and services, promoting occupations, creating jobs, and generating income. The research employed the Design Thinking process with active participation from local residents and elderly members of the Noen Hom community. The identity of the community was explored through focus group discussions involving 50 participants, including villagers, community scholars, leaders, elderly individuals, citizen representatives, and local government officials. Findings were analyzed using triangulation to ensure data validity and used to establish the Noen Hom Community Tourism Brand. Four product groups were developed through the design thinking process: (1) Food Products: Oyster mushrooms an agricultural product distinctive to the community were transformed into Noen Hom Oyster Mushroom Snacks representing the communitys identity. (2) Handicrafts and Decorative Items: Community members collaborated to create artificial roses using processed sandalwood paper, diversifying them for special occasions to expand market opportunities. (3) Local Wisdom-Based Products and Services: Herbal knowledge was integrated into community products such as herbal soap and sprays. These were incorporated into tourism activities where local experts guided visitors in hands-on experiences. (4) Contemporary Products: Branded T-shirts and polo shirts were developed to appeal to younger consumers. Vocational training workshops for villagers and elderly participants included cooking, handicrafts, herbal processing, bamboo work, local tour guide training, and social media branding.
Most participants were middle-aged women (aged 4159), followed by elderly individuals (aged 60 and above). Elderly participants contributed to tasks aligned with their prior experience, especially those involving communication and coordination. The findings suggest that sustainable community tourism development should emphasize intergenerational collaboration among youth, adults, and the elderly.