Problems and recommendations regarding human resource development within the otop project: A case study of herbal cosmetics entrepreneurs

Abstract

This article explores the approach of human resource development context within an OTOP project: a case study of herbal cosmetics entrepreneurs. In terms of field studies aiming for developing products, the problem lies in unawareness of importance of learning from external experiences within the same cluster. There was also the problem of entrepreneur network development among the OTOP herbal cosmetics group, which lacks continuity. In addition, there is a problem of developing a new generation to continue the business, insofar as all the accumulated knowledge and local wisdom are rarely transferred to young people these days. The recommendations concerning human resource development context are to do effective field study, which must include a preliminary consideration by the entrepreneurs of the type, form, and size of the OTOP enterprise, and consideration of suitable model for field study in order to study and utilize the knowledge in the development of their own business. Moreover, the government sector should support network development among the OTOP entrepreneurs within the herbal cosmetics cluster by pointing to the benefit of such a network and supporting the entrepreneurs in the development of network. The government should also support new generation development projects in the OTOP herbal products field to ensure that the new generation will absorb the local wisdom and existing resources in their community, understanding them as assets which can generate income in the future. © Copyright International Knowledge Press. All rights reserved.