My Creative Process

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Process Journal 09 | Reflection

I feel this Creative Problem Solving process had great potential if we were given more time to spend for certain stages and to be more thoughtful; however, it worked well for my team and me to fulfill the project requirements. The convergence and divergence that the process required were helpful to us as we were forced to step back and re-evaluate the bigger picture and end goal and to also come to an agreement and hone in on an idea or solution. This allowed us to expand our ideas without feeling confined, and then come back together in a different lens to refine and narrow down our ideas. We’ve found that being equally passionate about our problem and solution has helped each stage of our process as well; it helped the team stay on one accord.

If there were more stages that I could add to this process is to Test Our Solution. This would have allowed us to gauge our success with a real user to understand if this would have been the most effective way to go. 

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Process Book 08 | Evaluation

The method of evaluation that best applies to our group’s creative process is A Plan of Improvement where each step of the way we set goals, scheduled meetings to measure our achievements, and planned for next steps. While staying connected on Slack, we were able to post weekly expectations and give updates prior to our calls in order to stay on track. With our different schedules and other obligations outside of school, we were able to stay on one accord during our individual work. Each member brought a different perspective to the table which helped navigate towards the bigger picture holistically. In addition, addressing a problem that we all resonated with helped with the motivation to succeed and to understand what our goals were since the Ideation phase. By being fully aware of the problem and fully understanding our solution, we are all able to tell the story with the same voice and perspective.

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We wanted to make the user experience was seamless with their shopping experience from Amazon into Amazon E3 by simply opting in at Checkout. We applied Amazon’s brand guidelines when designing the user interface of E3 while adding the social aspect. Similar to Etsy or Pinterest, the user is able to browse through a variety of creations made by others who chose to repurpose their cardboard boxes; for each creation made, the more points are rewarded. Since our criteria and theme revolve around Education, Engagement, and Expression, so the screens reflect those three features.

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Process Book 07 | Implementation

We will visually demonstrate how our app is integrated into Amazon’s platform. Amazon’s partnership is key to the success of our product so we will need to create a pitch deck that will be used to present the business plan. This deck will contain the problem we are trying to solve, the solution, costs, revenue projections, financial assumptions, strategic partnerships, timeline, and the team that will successfully launch our app. We’ve already designed the app, so all that will be needed is a development team to bring it to life.

[ngg-creativeprocess]

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Choosing a Solution

Criteria | Education, Engagement, and Expression (Amazon E3)

Problem | With Amazon evolving and e-commerce continuing to grow, there is still a lack of education around Recycling. We began to ask ourselves, “How do we adapt to this revolution?” To initiate the customer’s process, there will be an option that opts them in during Checkout.

1. Educate: Throughout their user experience, they will learn the process it takes that brought their package to them, how the planet is affected by this process, or how to continue to reduce their carbon footprint.

2. Engage: From the time they opt-in at Checkout, they begin accumulating points that are automatically credited to their Amazon account. The user receives push notifications to track their actions (repurposing cardboard boxes or recycling the boxes at an Amazon facility). From the time their package is delivered, they will be prompted with a notification that educates them with impactful Fun Facts to capture their attention.

3. Express: This will bring the social aspect into the experience where users can share their creations with their DIY furniture projects. Through sharing and posting on Instagram contests, they have the opportunity to be recognized by Amazon and be rewarded while, also, spreading awareness.

How do the pragmatic and logistical concerns around implementation affect the selection of our solution? Will Amazon partner with us? Afterall, our solution exists solely on Amazon platform.

How do we deal with compromises and coming to a consensus regarding the solution decision? In examing the requirements, limitations, and stakes related to developing and deploying an advanced technological system, the cost, and manpower needed may be too complicated (i.e. QR codes and having to print custom QR codes on all shipping boxes).

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Process Journal 06 | Selection

As we were ideating solutions, we spoke about it and recorded our conversation so we can digest all of the information and begin to converge our ideas. We’ve noticed that our ideas complemented each other’s and were able to use all ideas in different ways. The method we used during this convergence phase is Idea Potpourri where we consolidated the best elements of our ideas and built from it creating a more concise solution. We’ve selected the idea of creating an app to enhance our users’ experience when shopping on Amazon. We want the process from Checkout to Amazon E3 (Educate, Engage, and Express) to remain seamless with the least amount of clicks possible. Afterall, the purpose of this app is to solve the problem of lack of education around Recycling. After talking and thinking out loud with my group, we’ve realized that our criteria are education, engagement, and expression. We began to ask ourselves what features/ideas can we apply to these 3 points. From there, we were able to converge our thoughts and refine our solution into a simple implementation. The only real hurdle would be partnering with Amazon to implement our app into its existing infrastructure. 

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Process Book 05 | Ideation

We initiated our brainstorming session independently based on what we’ve gathered through our individual research and collaborative sessions. As we came together via Adobe Connect, we went through our ideas and realized that there were some overlaps where we were able to build off of those ideas to create a more defined possible solution. Our brainstorming session revolved around an app being the medium our audience will be using to opt-in. Instead of building a new mobile app, we talked about partnering with Amazon and creating an extension of their platform by implementing a rewards system that incentivizes our users to be actively involved in recycling. It would be a simple concept - Educate, Engage, and Express. Upon receiving their delivery, they are given the opportunity to scan their QR code where a popup will appear within their Amazon app with a fun “Did You Know” experience. They learn about the process it took to get their package delivered to them, and then they are given the chance to pass it along and continue to recycle (or repurpose) and spread awareness. We feel that by incentivizing the users, they will more likely remain engaged with the app because they would earn points and redeem points for Amazon purchases with ease. We talked about a customized QR code that's printed on their specific box that initiates the reward points; however, we have not considered the costs and process it would need to take in order to print a QR code on every box. Is there another way that could initiate their points seamlessly without having to scan? Maybe we can use the Track Your Package feature that tracks and measures the lifespan of the cardboard box from manufacturers, delivery services, to modern cardboard furniture. 

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Group Brainstorming & Debriefing Session

Our team collaborated remotely through Adobe Connect. We wrote down our ideas as we brainstormed potential solutions.

We wanted to create an extension of Amazon’s services to become the Amazon E3 platform which aims to Educate, Engage, and Express global-consciousness. We’ve generated a list of potential features that would embody our solutions within an app. This app will track the customer’s package as well as actions that are incentivized. When the user decides to redeem their points, they can use them on any of Amazon’s products or services as credits.

We want the customer experience to be seamless from the time their package gets delivered. If they choose to opt-in to a good cause, they will notice a QR code on the box that prompts them to scan it (call-to-action). The customer can scan the QR code in the Amazon app where they can track their package; they scan their box stating they received it - this will be the first action that they receive points. By immediately incentivizing them, this will entice them to discover more ways to earn points while helping them understand the process it took for their package to arrive and educate them on how to be a part of their movement towards a green planet.

The following are ways to earn points to spend:

Create/Repurpose packaging with DIY projects:

DIY projects that teach the user ways to repurpose boxes (Step-by-Step guide with Did You Know popups)

For each step, the user accumulates points (each action equates to a different amount)

Scan the special QR code and get a generated list of all DIY furniture you can make with that sized box

can we use VR/AR to identify boxes? This would save $ and paper - don’t have to print out QR codes on boxes, maybe print on tape

Encourage them to share their masterpiece with other social media platforms while spreading awareness.

Recycling

sending back clusters of boxes to be reused OR initiating pickup service for next delivery

dropping at Amazon lockers

check-in at the lockers, get reward points when you check in

Delegate points system to diff actions (i.e. Repurpose or Drop Off/Recycle)

Integrate maps + check-in

Having a huge pile of boxes at home - NOTE: “Pick up boxes next delivery”

running tally of boxes you have based on your orders

Educating

educational aspect of the app: ‘did you know’ pop-ups

Fun facts about what it took to get your product delivered to you

Interesting to know the shipping process

points for action and education, example: just going to the Amazon locker or going to the education tab

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Process Book 04 | Define

The process has been pretty smooth so far; I feel we were ahead the first day we brainstormed problems to solve. We resonated with the problem of the increasing number of boxes we receive from our Amazon purchases and were eager to find solutions. However, as we’ve done further research on the background of this problem, we’ve learned facts about Amazon’s initiatives that prove that they are working towards reducing their carbon footprint by implementing new packaging design to reduce materials. We’ve identified many questions that we had to ask ourselves as we narrowed down our problem to ideate effective solutions. 

Some questions include:

+ How can we educate users on how packaging affects the earth and alternate ways to repurpose their boxes?

+ How can we incentivize users to send back clusters of packaging to be reused?

+ How can we design a system that doesn’t require additional delivery/pickup service that may increase the carbon footprint?

+ How can we create an impactful experience for the customer that drives change?

+ How do we utilize Amazon’s pre-existing efforts to spread awareness that provides an effective, engaging, and self-sustaining solution?

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Problem Definition

Through all of the research, we were able to refine our problem further while dismissing other problems we initially addressed. We’ve come to the realization that the problem lies in the fact that there is a lack of knowledge around the topic - recycling. If people aren’t thinking about how their actions directly impact the planet we live in, then how would they know to become more mindful of their actions (especially with the rise of e-commerce packaging)? The problem isn’t the rise of e-commerce, nor is the problem Amazon’s lack of global-consciousness and efforts to reduce their carbon footprint. In fact, Amazon is a leader in many green initiatives when it comes to its Frustration-Free Packaging and their company mission. 

What better way to influence change than to create something that is impactful? By utilizing Amazon’s pre-existing efforts to spread awareness, this would allow us to reach over 300 million Amazon customers and share the most effective ways to reuse or recycle Amazon’s cardboard boxes. While spreading awareness of the benefits of being environmentally responsible across all ages, this could have the potential to “reverse the negative behaviors that lead to the degradation of the environment.” According to a report called Examining the Effects of Recycling Education on the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of Elementary School Students written by Illinois Wesleyan University, “…we have become ignorant, and in this ignorance, we are steadily losing our ability to live with the land instead of working against it.” How do we create a positive experience to shift perspectives on how to utilize cardboard boxes as repurposed furniture or something cool while educating them about the recycling process and its effect on our planet? 

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Conjunction Junction

1. My sketchbook is pocket-sized and in good condition. The pages have a grid and have a thicker weight. It goes everywhere with me just in case I have ideas at random times and need to jot it down, and it stores my ideas until I’m ready to pursue them. My sketchbook’s size is convenient when I’m on the go, but it runs out of space easily because it is small. It is handy to have but also easy to lose.

2. My business cards are made by Moo.com and are great quality. They are square with rounded corners and a matte finish. My first initial is my logo and was inspired by my passion for brushlettering and urban art. It contains my email, phone number, and Instagram handle, but I haven’t updated my profile with my work. My card is a nice size, but it sticks out when it’s stacked with other standard business cards.

3. My water bottle was purchased from Costco and was sold in a pack of two. It is a thermal water bottle and keeps my drink ice cold for 24 hours. It’s extremely refreshing and keeps me hydrated, and it also has a handle for easy handling. It is meant to be carried, but it gets heavy to carry after a long period of time. 

4. My hometown is Monterey, CA and is also where I was born. I lived near the beach and was always able to watch the waves crash when I sat in traffic. It is a small town and is a melting pot of all ethnicities. It’s nice to visit my hometown, but it is also eerie that nothing has changed; it’s like a time-capsule of my life. Some people that still live there say they wished it renovated some areas, but I hope they don’t before I get a chance to show my (future) children exactly where I grew up.

5. My dog’s name is Dashi, and she’s my fur baby/ spirit animal. She and her brother were named after Baymax and Tadashi from Big Hero 6. She’s so smart and loves to take naps. When she doesn’t want to be bothered, she’ll hide under the blankets or the bed. She knows a bunch of tricks but doesn’t like to perform without a treat. She has characteristics of a terrier and has hair like a Papillon, but we don’t know exactly what breed/mix she is. She’s currently laying on top of my feet, but I don’t want to move her because my feet are cold.

//photos coming soon...

[ngg-creativeprocess]

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Process Book 03 | Analyze

I’ve started my research on Google, which led me to many interesting articles about Amazon’s efforts in remaining environmentally-conscious. Through the research, I realize that Amazon has been/is at the forefront of many green initiatives such as their Frustration-Free Packaging mission to optimize customer packaging experience while being sustainable. 

It was during this research phase when I had my “Aha!” moment; I realize the real problem is the lack of education about recycling. We can use Amazon’s platform to help educate a mass audience who remains loyal to Amazon and its products/services. 

There were many clever ways to repurpose cardboard into architectural designs. In fact, Pinterest helped the popularity of DIY projects and sharing it on a platform. Our solution would enable millions of people to take action, be creative while reducing their carbon footprint. By creating a fun experience for the customer while making a positive impact in the. world, this could be successful for Amazon, its customers, and the world.

[ngg-creativeprocess]

Process Book 02 | Accept

Being one of the millions of Amazon Prime customers that are constantly throwing boxes out, I can’t imagine the damage this is doing to our planet. I always feel a sense of guilt as I break down my boxes and tearing off my information every single time I receive a package(s) and can’t help but wonder how are other people disposing their packaging material and how/if they break down their boxes as well. Seeing that Amazon is a growing corporation that many people support and are loyal to, I can’t help but think there is a better way to package goods and/or recycle the material in a more efficient way that is useful for the customers and environment. I pitched this idea to my team and luckily, they acknowledge and are as passionate about the same problem as I am. We accepted the challenge to find an efficient way to solve this growing problem. The first solution we thought of is repurposing cardboard boxes and to develop a prototype of an app that customers can use to scan their box and get a list of ways to reuse their box (i.e. storage containers, magazine holders, etc.). All in all, I feel confident that my team can execute this big idea and, in turn, make a difference in the world.

[drxgonfly]

Floating in a Sea Galaxy (by drxgonfly) Instagram

[spiritualgateway]

We are always looking for solutions from someone else. We forget that if we turn our mind inward, we can get some ideas, some solutions.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar (via spiritualgateway)