A Case Study of Doormat Craft Business Management by Disabled People's Organizations

Abstract

The Pusat Pemberdayaan Mitra Sejahtera (PPDMS) is a Disabled People's Organization (DPO) in Indonesia that continued operating its doormat craft business during the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a unique time, given many constraints on workers in Indonesia. This study aimed to explore the challenges PPDMS faced while running their doormat craft business during the COVID-19 pandemic and what strategies they used to overcome these challenges. A case study was used to explore the unique characteristics of DPO entities and their strategies to continue a sustainable business during the pandemic. Research participants included organizational leaders, members, coordinators, partner subsidiaries, and families of persons with disabilities. Data collection techniques included interviews, observation, and document review. The research findings revealed determinants of the DPO's survival in the doormat craft business, namely (a) transformative leadership based on cooperation, (b) productivity of DPO members and their families, and (c) assistive technology for accessible doormat craft. These findings can inform good practices that can be disseminated to other DPOs.