It happens all the time. Someone thinks he has a bright idea, and a new consumer product is born. Unfortunately, not every new concept is worth putting on a retail shelf, as illustrated by this 2012 post on the “20 Useless Products No One Should Buy.” So what factors do you need to consider when looking at product usability? Here are four components we recommend. Google+
Love watches, music and fashion? And have an iPod® Nano? Check out the Deckster™ – it’s a new, funky, fashionable and sustainable unisex watch strap custom built for Apple’s iPod Nano. The patent-pending Pop+Lock™ System models the functionality of a retro cassette tape deck allowing the Nano to be smoothly inserted into the protective enclosure in one easy, fluid motion to become a stylish multi-functional watch. This iWatch is fashion for the forward set and convenient carrying of the Nano for work, sports and leisure. Design 1st also likes to fast forward clients’ innovative concepts into useful, aesthetically beautiful and marketable Continue reading
The history of industrial design began during the 1920’s when automobiles and electrical appliances were starting to enter the consumer market. As competition grew, firms differentiated their market position catering to consumers who were willing to spend more on luxury goods and intelligent design. The inventors and engineers behind these products were technically brilliant but often lacked creativity to enhance the look, feel and usability of products. To remedy this problem they turned to talented artists from various art schools leveraging their creative insights for the development of consumer products. The Electrolux Appliance Design Lab competition continues the tradition of leveraging Continue reading
Here’s a great video compilation of quotes from design luminaries giving their interpretation of design. It reflects what goes through the heads of designers when engaging in the product development process – truly inspiring. To me Design is……… Google+
The 2010 InfoComm – Las Vegas tradeshow provided a terrific platform for this industry interaction with over 900 exhibitors and 300 educational seminars. Continue reading
Gartner’s Cool Vendor’s report is designed to highlight interesting, new and innovative vendors, products and services. Design 1st was proud to hear that former clients Sustainable Energy Technologies and Pliant Technologies were named in the 2010 Cool Vendors Report. Continue reading
Advances in technology and innovative product development have made Stevie Wonder’s message of accessible technology for the disabled – a reality. A recent 2010 NFL Superbowl Volkswagen commercial highlighted the latest advances in technology for the visually impaired. Continue reading
When you hear “milk chocolate”, what colour comes to mind? In our efforts to support a recent promotional program for Hershey, Design 1st had some chocolate colour co-ordination to sort out. Continue reading
The 2010 Vancouver Olympics showcased the creative design talent Canada has to offer. These Olympic Games provided industrial designers, architects and engineers countless opportunities to exhibit their talent and design innovation. Continue reading
The government of Canada’s 2010 Budget was released on March 4th, within were various provisions impacting Canadian small business funding. Continue reading