A Dual Diagnostic Framework for Modernizing the Miao Embroidery Industry

초록

This study proposes a dual diagnostic framework to qualitatively examine the structural constraints and value-conversion barriers in the modernization of the Miao embroidery industry. Integrating a reconstructed 5C model with cultural value chain theory, the research aims to explain why culturally rich ethnic crafts often fail to achieve sustainable industrial transformation. Adopting a qualitative case-study approach, this research focuses on the Taijiang Miao embroidery cluster, selected for its cultural representativeness, industrial typicality, and accessibility of field data. Empirical materials are derived from semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders (including embroiderers, cooperative managers, enterprise operators, and local officials), field observations of embroidery workshops and cooperatives, and qualitative analysis of policy and industry documents. The findings reveal a dual-layered dilemma: at the structural level, the industry is constrained by fragmented production actors, weak collaborative networks, and limited design coordination; at the value-chain level, discontinuities emerge between cultural symbolism, design translation, product development, branding, and market communication. In particular, the lack of effective cultural-symbol translation prevents traditional motifs from being translated into communicable and contemporary design language. The study contributes theoretically by extending the 5C model from firm-level strategic analysis to industry-level qualitative diagnosis in ethnic craft contexts, and by advancing cultural value chain theory through identifying “symbol translatability” as a critical missing mechanism. In practice, it offers a design-driven, collaboration-oriented pathway for the sustainable modernization of traditional craft industries.

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