Kulayaan: An E-Commerce Platform Showcasing PDLs' Artworks with an Immersive Virtual Tour Feature
Jerome B. Tamargo, Justine Amiel T. Jonson, Roseville Jeanne L. Evangelista, Elcid A. Serrano · 2024
The Kulayaan e-commerce platform was developed to support Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) artists by promoting their artworks and providing a broader platform for their expressions. The study aimed to address the primary question of how an e- commerce platform can aid in promoting and selling PDL artworks, thereby enhancing their visibility and market reach. The platform includes an immersive virtual tour feature, allowing customers to explore artworks in a more engaging and detailed manner. Utilizing a quantitative research method, the study involved 30 respondents to evaluate the platform's usability and user experience through the System Usability Scale (SUS) and the User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ). The results indicated high usability and positive user experiences, with SUS and UEQ scores reflecting an "Excellent" rating. These findings suggest that Kulayaan is well-received, user-friendly, and effective in meeting the needs of its users. The platform serves as a commercial venue and acts as a bridge between PDL artists and the wider community, contributing to the social reintegration of PDLs through art and commerce. Based on these findings, several recommendations were made, including using 360-degree virtual cameras to enhance the virtual tour feature, integrating continuous user feedback, implementing a comprehensive marketing strategy, and performing regular updates and system maintenance. Expanding artist participation through workshops and collaborations with correctional facilities was also recommended. In conclusion, the Kulayaan platform demonstrates that technology can play a crucial role in promoting social and economic inclusion for PDL artists, fostering societal integration and support for this marginalized community.