For assessment 2a, each group were given the task to create a caddie bin liner design along with an instruction sheet that clearly demonstrates how the caddie bin liner is formed. The NSW EPA requested for the end product to be made from newspaper and the design to be appealing enough in all aspects that more people would be encouraged to actually fold the caddie liner and make more use out of their caddies at home. The brief itself was straightforward, which was fitting considering the amount of time we had to develop a solution.
My first thought when given the brief and the time we had to complete it was to keep the design simple and for it to require minimal time and effort for people to create. When we met as a group to discuss the project, each member had a similar thinking. We began this process by setting clear objectives, which helped us to gain clarity and direction. Our main objective was to create a product that is clear, simple, accessible, affordable and practical. Not only was this our main focus, but to also visually communicate this idea to the audience through the instruction sheet and other deliverables (instruction sheet as a sticker to place on the front of the bin) to encourage people to attempt making our caddie liner.
With this, we developed a six step origami caddie bin liner with several refinements made that lead us to our final design.
As a group of six interdisciplinary students (Visual Communication, Fashion and Integrated Product Design), we were able to learn each other’s strengths and weaknesses and play on each member’s skills set and knowledge. Visual communication students’ tend to focus on engaging and communicating key concepts and messages to the audience through aesthetics, while Fashion and IPD students tend to be more hands-on and tactile. As designers from different disciplines, we were able to approach the design brief through various factors as we understand there isn’t just one answer for this solution.
Ensuring that everyone kept in contact, I created a Facebook page and chat group as a platform where everyone could maintain efficient and effective communication.
During the early stages, research was conducted individually before gathering again to share our ideas and findings. The feedback provided in response to each idea helped us narrow down to one particular design we thought had the most potential and successful in all aspects possible – quick and easy to make, not overly complicated, inexpensive production costs, and more. Following this, refinements were made where we thought were necessary, for example adding an optional extra layer at the bottom of the liner to increase durability and eliminating unnecessary steps to shorten the amount of time required to fold. We then outlined a list of tasks to delegate to each member and to be completed by the next meeting. During the time in between meetings, we continued to communicate via social media and offered help to others when needed for further refinement. We met one last time outside of uni to collate everything together and prepare for our presentation.
I felt that our group dynamic worked really well. Everyone had a solid understanding and respect for each member’s skills set, knowledge and schedule. Although it was a little challenging arranging meetings outside of uni with everyone’s busy uni/work schedule, we managed to meet up every Wednesday morning before class. Participation and contribution from all members was also promising.
However, if we were given more time I would’ve liked more flexibility within the NSW EPA brief and have the opportunity to experiment with other sustainable materials in creating the caddie liner.
References:
Wealth From Waste 