During my user research period, I interviewed three different students who had a passion for computers and technology. I asked them a series of questions regarding the toolkit they currently use, how they use it, and what they would like to see improved. I also observed their process first hand and Highlighted a few key findings.
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I conducted my market research by going to Frys.com, an electronics retailer, and browsing their selection of computer tool kits. Some kits were more “complete” than others. Here I’ve highlighted some of the key differences I found between several products.
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I conducted my market research by going to Frys.com, an electronics retailer, and browsing their selection of computer tool kits. Some kits were more “complete” than others. Here I’ve highlighted some of the key differences I found between several products.
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Based on my research I decided that the basic screwdriver kit was probably the most important tool in the arsenal. I wanted my design to have several key features: Magnets to hold the screwdriver bits, a screwdriver extension to reach the hard to get places, and an area for holding loose screws. But before I tackled all that, my design needed a basic form. A form that was small, portable, and comfortable to hold.
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Once I had my form settled, I had to decide what exactly my kit was going to accommodate. Earlier versions played with the possibility of having needle-nose pliers, but the also lacked the storage compartment for loose screws. Other iterations experimented with the idea of a modular system, where extra bits and tools could be attached to the basic kit. Unfortunately the logistics of attaching several kits to each other never found an elegant, feasible solution.
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The final model consists of five parts: The outer shell, the insert that holds the tools, the compartment for loose screws, the lid for that compartment, and finally the lid for the whole kit. The body and lid are made of various colored plastics and the insert is made of foam. The friction of the foam walls serves to hold the larger pieces in place, while magnets are used to keep the smaller bits from coming loose. The screw storage compartment is denoted by a small screw icon on the lid and is also made of plastic.
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Computer Maintenance Tool Cradle
This 2nd year project required us to design a tool cradle for some activity, hobby, or profession. For me, this project represents my preliminary foray into design research, persona construction, user-centered design, and portfolio documentation.
