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

Abstract

Tom Kelley's design framework is a popular and versatile design thinking model employed by various industriesin solving major design problems and challenges. The Ghanaian weaving industry as one of the creative industriesis believed to be facing challenges with innovation and sustainability in modern business. This hypothesis triggered theneed 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 wasconducted 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 orindependently applied in the industry. Furthermore, it unearthed the strong interrelation between feasibility and viabilityas the major pointers in solving design problems in the Ghanaian weaving industry where research and technologicaladvancement are needed. From the study, it is suggested the industry should embrace technology and innovations in theproduction line in order to sustain the Ghanaian weaving industry in the modern business landscape.