Comparative study of technology usage a case study of formally and non-formally trained fashion designers in the Kumasi Metropolis of the Ashanti Region, Ghana

Abstract

Sustainability of a fashion enterprise depends largely on creativity and innovative technology application, good entrepreneurial skills as well as adoption of appropriate marketing strategies. Although the Ghanaian fashion designers may be formally or non formally trained, it is unclear the differences in their services and marketing techniques and their respective areas that require improvements. This study therefore aimed at assessing the dichotomy in the use of creative and innovative technology, entrepreneurial skills as well as marketing strategies among formally and non-formally trained fashion designers in the Kumasi Metropolis of the Ashanti region, Ghana. The study employed a qualitative cross-sectional approach of design. Through non-random sampling technique and the use of structured questionnaire, data obtained from formally and non-formally trained fashion designers were processed statistically. Descriptive statistics as well as inferential statistics including Independent samples t-test and Chi Square analyses were performed. In several respects, it was observed that, the formally trained designers were more creative, applied innovative technology, better at displaying entrepreneurial skills and marketing their products and services. This has established a baseline information about the fashion designers in the Kumasi Metropolis for further studies across the country. It is recommended that, computer application is encouraged during training of all fashion designers. If possible, both non-formal and formal training should be encouraged for better effect. Government could come to the aid of beginner fashion designers with soft loans.