Product Design @ Parsons School of Design
THE STRAWB CART
a utility cart inspired by the intricacies of produce and convenience of your local NYC bodega.
The Ask: Design a physical product inspired by a NYC Bodega
Scope: Research, Ideate, Prototype and Test/Gain Feedback
Project Timeline: 3 weeks
Research:
Empathize and Define
I visited 3 different bodegas in Soho, East Village and Greenwich Village to conduct stakeholder interviews gaining insight into the lives of bodega owners.
Key questions:
What are the most significant challenges you face on a daily basis as a bodega owner in New York City?
How has the changing economic landscape and consumer behavior affected your business in recent years?
How do you manage inventory and supply chain issues, and what strategies do you employ to minimize product waste?
How do you engage with the local community, and what initiatives do you take to build a strong rapport with your customers?
What role does cultural diversity play in your bodega, and how do you tailor your product offerings to meet the diverse preferences of your customer base?
How have recent global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, impacted your bodega business, and what adaptations have you made to overcome challenges?
Findings: Miro Board
I discovered 4 key trends and pain points across the various bodegas.
Problem:
Bodega owners struggle to find space-saving, organized solutions to effectively display their products to consumers without compromising the warm and intimate ambiance of a neighborhood shop
Ideate:
Mood Board and Mind Map
Prototype:
Cardboard and Laser Printed Prototype
Sketch
Low fidelity
High fidelity
