From User Needs to Sustainable Innovation: An Integrated NLP–Grounded Theory–Kano–AHP–QFD Approach to the Modern Design of Yi Ethnic Lacquerware Chairs

Abstract

A close relationship exists among cultural expression, craftsmanship transmission, and user experience in intangible cultural heritage (ICH) furniture. However, the modernization of ethnic cultural products requires systematic understanding of users’ latent cultural and emotional needs. Using the Yi ethnic lacquerware chair as a focus, this study proposes a user-centered design framework integrating cultural genes, emotional resonance, and design innovation. User requirements were identified from 49,671 valid online comment records using natural language processing and Grounded Theory, complemented by semi-structured interviews with 12 experts. User requirements were classified using the Kano model and weighted via the Analytic Hierarchy Process. Quality Function Deployment was used to translate prioritized user needs into technical characteristics, while the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) was applied to evaluate alternative design schemes. It was found that cultural symbolism, emotional value, and narrative expression exerted stronger influences on user preference than functional attributes. Technical priorities include culturally themed form expression, sustainable application of Yi lacquerware craftsmanship, and digital integration of ethnic patterns. The proposed NLP–Kano–AHP–QFD–TOPSIS system reduces subjectivity in design decision-making and offers a transparent and transferable approach for ethnic furniture design, ICH product development, and sustainable cultural innovation.