During the International Design Week workshop, titled „But Seriously… Following the Call of Beauty… or Celebrating the CounterPARTY?“, we began by exploring the possibilities within graphic design.
As a group of students, we identified various daily life problems that we, as designers, could address. Each of us presented a specific problem, and we decided to focus on the issue of recycling information. I brought in a leaflet from my student dorm that was overwhelming and full of information, highlighting a common issue in student dorms and public spaces. While local residents are typically educated about proper waste disposal, newcomers often find it challenging to learn and follow new guidelines.
We split into two groups to brainstorm solutions. One immediate idea was to design a better flyer to make the recycling process more understandable. However, we soon expanded our thinking beyond traditional graphic design.
We explored various innovative solutions, such as implementing a color-coding system for garbage bags or using colored stickers on packaging to simplify sorting. Ultimately, we decided to focus on integrating packaging with a digital scanning app. This app would connect physical materials with digital information, helping to resolve recycling issues more effectively.
The app would allow users to scan a code on the packaging and receive rewards, thus gamifying the recycling process. This approach not only makes recycling easier but also incentivizes participation, making the process more engaging and rewarding.
While we mainly brainstormed solutions during the workshop without having the time to prototype, the experience sparked important reflections. I began to consider how digital solutions, when implemented correctly, could address real-life problems thanks to unique qualities such as interactivity, gamification, and audio/video integration. These digital features have the potential to create engaging and effective tools that can significantly enhance our daily lives.
