Backpack Redesign
For this assignment, we were put into groups where we looked at a product and tried to improve it. So, we met as "focus groups" and focused on backpacks. Being sophomores in high school, we use backpacks a lot. We started by discussing the purpose of a backpack: to carry things. Then we thought about our backpacks and what we liked about them and what needed to be improved. We kept the characteristics of the backpack that we liked, and started brainstorming how to improve the flaws in the backpack. For our final product, we decided to use a basic, generic backpack template (same shape, two straps, etc...) and made a few adjustments. We decided that we needed more exterior pockets because one isn't enough, so we added four, two on the front and one on each side. The next thing we changed was the straps. We voted that it's better to have two straps as opposed to one because having two straps distributes weight more evenly on your shoulders, but it would still be uncomfortable, so we decided to a extra padding to the straps so it's more comfortable on your shoulders. We also decided to add a little pocket compartment to the strap of the backpack for a space to store a phone, headphones or other electronics. The final executive decision we made was to use zippers on the outside pockets rather than magnets because, although zippers break, get stuck, and come apart, they are more durable than magnets, which lose strength, fall off, etc... If I were to change the design, I would focus more on the interior of the backpack and not just focusing on the outside.