Design Step 1

Task

In Design Step 1 of our Senior Capstone project, this is where we identified the problem that we wanted to solve with our project, began our market research, brainstormed possible solutions to our chosen problem, and prepared a list of design specifications.

Problem

The problem that we chose to solve with our project was the issue of the social isolation that communities have been placed in due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With a lack of social interaction, many people have felt a disconnect with others. Our goal is to reinstate that social environment in hopes that it will bring people together again and bring back a sense of normalcy in such a weird time.

Proposed Solution

Our proposed solution to solve this issue is to create a communal public bench that fosters social interaction while simultaneously being built sustainably, as we also feel that this is an important factor of the bench creation process.

Market Research

For our market research, we began to look into the types of customers we would be aiming for this design to reach, such as hotels, public parks, libraries, public plazas, schoolyards, and more. We researched the benches already existing in the market and brainstormed different ways that we could make our bench design even better.

Content

Research & Brainstorm

• Recycled materials

• Organic and recycled wood (timber)?

• Waterproof/water resistant/weatherproof

• Portable

• Comfortable to sit on

• Facilitate in-person interaction

• Bench has round shape to have people interact more efficiently

• Seat minimum of six people

• Must be ADA Compliant (seat height of 17in-19in)

• Back support and armrests to assist in sitting and standing

• Clear ground space to accommodate a single stationary wheelchair occupant

Definitions

• market: A set up where two or more parties engage in exchange of goods, services and information

• customer: A person or organization that buys goods or services from a store or business

Reflection

Two things that I believe that I succeeded in with this project were being a conscientious learner and using critical thinking. I found that many times throughout the project I took initiative for my own learning and spent extra time making sure that I understood what was happening at all times. As well as this, I also found that I was able to manage my time well on my own, which allowed me to complete my portion of the project on time when it was necessary. In addition to self-advocacy, I also feel like I did a good job with challenging myself to think critically at times, especially when brainstorming during research.

Two things that I feel I could've used some improvement on would be collaboration and communication. For the most part, everyone was able to work on their designated portions of the project, but I feel that at times it was a little hard to keep the collaboration and communication efficient because some group members did not fulfill their duties as team members. In the future, I want to make sure that I try harder to ensure that everyone is on the same page throughout the project and if the collaboration is lacking, then I will reach out to someone who can help resolve the issue.