local dna

 

Concise Summary (Synthesis)

This presentation emphasizes the importance of tracing the process from theoretical research to practical implementation through professional design expertise. The speaker argues that this process is not limited to designers but is applicable across professions, including education. Central to the discussion is the concept of “local DNA”, which refers to the unique cultural, historical, environmental, and social characteristics embedded in a specific place. These elements shape people’s memories, identities, and ways of thinking, often forming the foundation for innovation, creativity, and meaningful design.

The speaker critiques education systems that prioritize leaving one’s hometown in pursuit of future success, suggesting that such approaches may undervalue the formative role of place and memory. Childhood experiences and local environments leave lasting impressions that resurface later in life and influence how individuals perceive the world. From this perspective, local culture and lived experience are not obstacles to progress but valuable resources that can generate innovative solutions, including educational tools, design strategies, and community-based development initiatives.

A key methodological emphasis is placed on in-depth qualitative research, particularly in-depth interviews, which allow researchers to continuously refine questions and uncover deeper cultural meanings. By systematically diagnosing local elements and translating them through design, technology, and storytelling, abstract local values can be transformed into tangible outcomes such as products, services, spatial experiences, cultural IP, or educational materials. This process is described as a layered transformation: from identifying local DNA, to shaping local charm, and finally to producing concrete design outputs.

Importantly, the speaker highlights that local solutions can address global issues. Problems such as sustainability, food waste, cultural preservation, and community identity may manifest locally but resonate internationally. Case examples from Taiwan, Japan, and Malaysia illustrate how deeply rooted local characteristics—such as festivals, crafts, religious practices, or natural environments—can be translated into internationally recognizable symbols and industries. Ultimately, the presentation frames local DNA as a powerful foundation for research, design, education, and place-based development, emphasizing that uniqueness does not mean isolation but rather the potential to contribute meaningfully across borders.