The Design of Souvenir Products Presented through Augmented Reality for the King Naresuan Exhibition and Convention Center

Abstract

The purposes of this research were 1) to study and analyze souvenir products for the King Naresuan Exhibition and Convention Center, 2) to design those souvenir products presented through augmented reality (AR) technology, and 3) to assess consumer satisfaction with the design of those souvenir products presented through AR technology. The study was conducted in two phases. In Phase 1, the researchers collected preliminary data by reviewing documents, theories, and research related to the design of souvenir product identities and visiting museums in Phitsanulok and Bangkok to create a questionnaire for use in assessing the needs identified by the research sample group. The data that were obtained were used for designing and creating the sketches of souvenir products, including the designed cartoon characters (a total of 40 patterns). These sketches were assessed using an assessment form and chosen by the experts in the field of souvenir product design. The chosen sketches were then used as prototypes for actual production in the next phase. In Phase 2, the five selected cartoon characters were used to produce the prototypes of souvenir products that could be presented through AR technology. The user could use his/her smart devices (e.g., a phone or a tablet) that had the NUsouvenirs application installed, to scan the souvenir products. The story and history of the King Naresuan Exhibition and Convention Center were presented. The souvenir products’ design as presented through AR technology was then assessed by the experts in the field of AR design and by the research sample group. The results showed that the design of the products, and the satisfaction with this AR experience and this AR application, were suitable for use in terms of uniqueness, design, usability, and suitability for being sold in stores. The AR technology was shown to be effective in promoting visitor involvement by purchasing souvenir products and gaining AR experience. Suggestions gained from the study and suggestions for further research are also discussed.