The dematerialization of a product literally means less, or better yet, no material is used to deliver the same level of functionality to the user. Sharing, borrowing and the organization of group services that facilitate and cater for communities needs could alleviate the requirement of ownership of many products.
For example: Uber ride-sharing service eliminates the need for users of ride sharing to own automobiles, resulting in less material used for transportation (as well as parking space) in urban areas.
Group Exercise (Formative)
Identify 20 examples of products or services that exemplify the concept of Dematerialization.
Document your ideas in a shared Google Doc. Include a photo explaining the the product or service and a link to an existing product or service provider. Move your Google Doc to this Shared Google Drive Folder.
References: Design-Tech Wiki - 2.2 Waste Mitigation Strategies
INDIVIDUAL EXERCISE (Summative)
Read the article from FORBES 30-Jun-18: Wheels of Fortune
Explain what technology was developed to make dockless ride sharing of bicycles. Explain why dockless ride sharing is a superior user experience to "docking" ride sharing. Use IB Style Themes and Bullet Headlines to answer. Post your response in the Independent Practice Section of your Web Site.
After you complete the assignment - check out Xiaoyue (Crystal) Jin's post to see about here personal experience with the company "OFO" - spoiler alert - They arrested her money!