I have heard there are troubles of more than one kind. Some come from ahead and some come from behind. But I’ve bought a big bat. I’m all ready you see. Now my troubles are going to have troubles with me! Dr . Seuss
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Malloy, Renée M. Panion: Journey & Process — ist ed. ©2010 Renée M. Malloy Printed in the U.S.A. Lulu.com All copyrights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without prior permission of the author or her heirs. Typefaces Minion Pro, by Robert Slimbach, and Futura, by Paul Renner. Book and cover design Renée M. Malloy
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Savannah College of Art and Design 3D Design class hosted by Professor Jason Fox
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Panion: Journey & Process R enĂŠe M . M alloy
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This project is dedicated to my mother, Jude M alloy, who inspir es and encour ages me e very day. I love you mor e th an you could e ver know. in loving memory of my father, Ja mes T. M alloy. You ar e for e ver in our he art s and minds. To e very survi vor, m ay ther e be hope knowing one day c ancer will be no mor e. Until then, le t us comfort e ach other along the jour ne y, knowing no jour ne y is walked alone.
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Tackling obeisity and encouraging healthier eating is something that I believe design and design thinking can make a significant contribution to. Tim Brown, Pr esident IDEO Our assignment was complex, as all good assignments are: Find a problem and solve it using a systematic approach to understanding the challenge and its need to be resolved. Ask the whys for every aspect of the solution. In essence, be a design thinker. The following pages show my process of understanding the problems associated with a cancer diagnosis regarding organization and transportation of necessary items previously not needed by the patient. How might I ease the journey of cancer survivorship? 9
Selec ting a problem
To begin, I looked at what I felt were feasible design problems. From a list of thirteen, I worked my way down to two key problems, one relating to cancer care, and the other, obesity. I wrote several pages of notes, researched online, and reached out to people in my community. Once I selected my topic, cancer care, I began my ethnographic research. At the core of the problem and at the core of the solution is the reality people are facing something terrible and terrifying. My solution needs to sustain not only the physical needs but also foster some emotional need fulfillment for the patients.
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We cannot direct the wind but we can adjust the sails. Unknown
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The Propos al
The problem: No one plans to hear the words, “you have cancer.� Cancer is unexpected, the effects of treatment are unpredictable, and patients and their caretakers must face the overwhelming mental, financial, and physical needs that arrive as soon as those words are spoken. For most, they may know someone who fought cancer, but they were likely not caretakers, aware of what may come and what they may need to prepare themselves. A lack of knowledge and an immensity of fear are common. Cancer patients spend a lot of time waiting, at treatment (which is generally hours long), in discomfort, and juggling things they never had to deal with before. Suddenly, their briefcases and purses are insufficient in space and function. The patients are often weak, so carrying heavy bags is cumbersome. Caretakers often help, but even they tire with long days of waiting. When a patient is diagnosed, there are more questions than answers. Sometimes there are no answers. Feeling completely alone is common. Feeling ill prepared is even more so. Organization is pertinent during this incredibly draining time, and patients need things they may have never needed before. So, what can be done? Proposed solution: I propose to design a cancer care kit for patients undergoing treatment. The kit will better equip patients for the journeys ahead. I say journeys as they will face both physical journeys to treatments and everyday life travels as well as the mental roller coaster they have just embarked upon. When physical needs are met, often mental and spiritual needs are also fed.
The kit might make the journey just a little more bearable, a little more comfortable physically, and a little easier knowing someone cared enough to make the kit and someone cared enough to give it to the patient. It represents how others have made this journey before, that the patient is not alone, and the patient has support. It is simple, indiscreet in appearance (so as to not draw attention to the patient as such), convertible for various objects that would be needed or wanted in the bag, and comfortable. The kit would provide places for everything the patient may need when they go for treatment. When given to the patient, the kit would include some of these items. It would have wheels and a pull bar for ease of carrying. As the patients will likely access the bag from a seated position, the bag will be designed in a way that is easily accessed from a seated position. The aesthetic of the bag will be simple, gender-neutral, and geared towards adults. There would be additional designs for children, men, and women if the bag were to be set into production. As most patients would be trading out a workbag, purse, or brief case for this bag, the bag will have a similar everyday style. It will not look too travel oriented, too casual, or too formal. The materials will be durable but comfortable. The design items will have a softness and elegance to them. I feel more formal typography will suit the project, with healing and calming or energizing colors. The bag will be easy to open and will stand on its own when open and closed. 13
Actual items: The kit itself will be broken into three main compartments: 1. Organization: • ID cards • Notebook for doctor notes • Paperwork • Money • Checkbook • Recording device for doctor discussion • Medical appointment log 2. Physical care: • Sunglasses • Diabetic socks • ChapStick • Lotions (Bag Balm) • Nail file/emery board • Weave cap/head wrap • Gloves • Hat • Blanket • Drinks (high protein or meal replacement) • Snacks • Thermal mug and spoon (for ice water/chips) • A wash cloth • A soft tooth brush and paste • Hand sanitizer 3. Entertainment items • iPad/iPod/Kindle/DVD player • Book/ magazines • Journal
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kit is indeed a genuine need, as I have not found anything online suggesting it has been met. There is also a need for doctor and pharmacist trust with patients. Perhaps these needs could meet. A realtor gives a gift welcoming you to your new home, helping to orientate you in the new town. Perhaps this relationship is not too estranged from the doctor, who acts as a guide through this new life. What I know so far: Beyond my own experience, I have looked online at cancer side effects, issues, care package recommendations, tips and techniques for dealing with side effects, as well as existing written care kits. As far as I have found, there is not a kit that addresses these needs in the way I intend to address them. I have found several useful blogs from survivors, but the consensus is survivors, who know someone who is diagnosed, make care kits for the people they know. I understand most doctors give out a sort of orientation kit, and some offices provide giveaways such as ChapStick. I know a bit about life papers, do not resuscitate forms, and insurance cards, but I need to know more about what exactly patients need with them. Proposed research/contacts: 1. The Sisters In Loss group, an online group of women who have lost a parent to cancer. We have all contributed to the book in progress by my friend, Danielle Thompson Ince.
Actual use: I could see a hospital or cancer treat- 2. Judy Freyermuth, a physical therapist and relament center sponsoring these bags, or perhaps tive of a friend- she created a “mind rebinder” for the American Cancer Society. Pharmaceutical cancer patients. The binder is made to organize companies wouldn’t be a bad idea, as this would medical forms. be a good PR tool for them as well. Most likely, the social workers would actually give the bags to 3. My cousin Dr. Anne Wolff; she gave a similar patients. I believe the problem I address with this medical journal to my dad when he was sick. I
will call her. Her husband is an anesthesiologist, so he may have tips too. 4. Dr. Lewis in Savannah, GA; I would like to hear his thoughts on care kits, what kits exist, and what suggestions he may have. 5. A local cancer treatment center- I would like to speak with some nurses and maybe talk with a couple of patients. 6. The American Cancer Society- I have several contacts here, as I have done so many Relays. I might see what they provide patients. I know of their education, research, and political advocacy programs, but they also have a patient center I am not familiar with. What made me chose this topic? Over three and a half years ago, my father lost his 21-monthlong battle with colon cancer. My family is very close, and, while I was in college at the time, I was very much involved in caretaking with my family. In addition, each of my dad’s four siblings have fought cancer, the chair of my department in undergrad (also my boss’s boss, my friend, and mentor) lost her battle with breast cancer, my sorority little sister lost her father to cancer the week before my father passed away, my old boss’s mother in law also lost her battle, my professor’s brother lost his battle a month after my dad, one of my friends fought ovarian cancer two years ago and is in remission, and my list goes on. I have walked and raised funds in six Relay for Life events and one Race for the Cure. Obviously, cancer care is extremely close to my heart. My memories of those twenty-one months are extremely vivid. While they hurt to replay in my mind, I know the battle goes on for so many oth-
ers. I also know that the support of others makes a tremendous difference to the patients, survivors, and caretakers. I am not going to lie, this process has already been extremely emotional for me, but I believe in the fight against cancer and the ability to ease the pains of those caught in the battle. I contributed to and have been editing a book for young women who are going through similar situations with their parents/guardians. I found the process of helping others to be healing. It heals on both sides. As I said, cancer is unexpected. Nothing will ease the diagnosis of cancer to a person or their loved ones. There is no easy button, but there can be steps taken to ease the journey of patients and their caretakers. Small things make a huge difference. This project will be one of those small things.
Cancer is so limited... It cannot cripple love. It cannot shatter hope. It cannot corrode faith. It cannot eat away peace. It cannot destroy confidence. It cannot kill friendship. It cannot shut out memories. It cannot silence courage. It cannot reduce eternal life. It cannot quench the Spirit.
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A design isn’t finished until somebody is using it. Br enda L aur el
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R e al wor ld Problems, R e al wor ld People
While I have been a caretaker and experienced the journey of a cancer patient with my father, I felt it was important to talk to those who are currently in the treatment centers, those who are taking and filing the paperwork, and those who would potentially buy this product for their patients. My classmate and friend, Christy (pictured), volunteered to go with me so I could photograph the patient journey at the Nancy anf J.C. Lewis Cancer Pavilion in Savannah, GA. While there, I walked through the places patients go and what they need along the way. Looking at these touch points helped focus my solution to better serve their needs.
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While e very jour ne y of diagnosis and tr e atment var ies, Ther e ar e se ver al ke y stages a patient will go through:
Something is wrong: Chances are, the patient Examination and consultations: Depending notices something is wrong and goes to the doc- on the type of cancer, there may be a need to meet tor or emergency room. If there is cancer, things with other doctors to discuss or further examine move quickly. the area of issue. Also, depending on surgery options, such as a mastectomy, a patient may conBiopsy result shows cancer: A pathologist sider reconstructive surgery. looks at your biopsy specimen under the microscope and notifies the radiologist or surgeon of Surgery and recovery: Your surgeon and the the results. surgical nurse give you information about your surgery appointment, what to expect at the hospiRadiologist or surgeon calls or meets tal and what your recovery will be like. with you to explain your diagnosis: If you have a core biopsy, the diagnostic radiologist who Pathology results determine if more surdid the biopsy tells you the results. If you have a gery is needed: A pathologist looks at the tissue surgical biopsy, the cancer surgeon who did the the surgeon removed to see if there are cancer biopsy tells you the results. This is done at an ap- cells. In some cases, more surgery may be needed. pointment or by phone. This is called a “re-excision.� Scheduling Coordinator arranges your appointments for intake and consultation with surgeon.
Appointment(s) with medical oncologist and/or radiation oncologist for treatment planning: A staff member will call you to arrange your appointments based on your individual needs.
Intake appointment in Center for Shared Decision Making: At this appointment you learn about treatment options as well as about di- If applicable, chemotherapy, hormone agnosis and surgery choices. therapy, or radiation therapy begins: These appointments are scheduled after you meet with Examination and consultation with sur- the medical oncologist. The medical oncologist geon: At this appointment you have a chance makes a treatment plan and the patient is schedto get your questions answered and discuss your uled on the plan. Multiple types of treatment may treatment options. be part of the plan. 18
The C ancer Jour ne y Family Doctor/ Health Center
Routine Screening Referred to
Local Hospital or Cancer Center for Tests
Referred to
Diagnosis of Cancer
Treatments
Palliative Care
End of Treatments
Continuing Treatments
Long-term Monitoring and Followup
Relapse
Cure
Cancer not Diagnosed
Terminal Care
Long-term Survival
Counseling: Throughout the entire journey, pa- Hospice care may be used for terminal castients and their caregivers will often seek counsel- es: How patients choose their final treatment is ing at home or on location. extremely personal. Some may prefer home care, while others may seek hospice care at home or in Periodic follow-up by a surgeon or an on- a center. cologist and regular screenings for five years: After you finish initial treatment, you are followed closely by the members of your care team. How often you are seen depends, in part, on your individual situation. 19
wash cloth (cleaning up & soothing)
tooth paste/ brush (nausea)
sunglasses (sensitivity to sun)
nail file & lip balm (dry lips and cracking nails)
snacks and drinks
gum and hard candies (nausea)
hat & gloves (sensitivity to cold)
blanket and pillow (fatigue & temperature)
the items on this page are common things patients will need or want with them dur ing tr e atment
wallet, keys, and checkbook
diabetic socks (the best when water retains)
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sanitizer, dry cleanser, and hand cream (weak immune system, various skin conditions)
note pad or journal and pen (for doctors notes or personal use)
mp3 (long waits)
voice recorder (dr.’s appts.)
family photo album (many patients appreciate having them )
entertainment (long appts.)
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uncomfortable & too small
heavy & awkward
uncomfortable for long waits
too heavy & awkward
Patients spend a good a mount of time se ated at home, in tr ansit and at the doc tor’s office. In addition to the items on the pr e vious page, patients need a load of paperwor k for insur ance, medic al r ecor ds, contac ts, medic ation lists, and a dvance dir ec tives with them . It is e xh austing and overwhel ming. physic ally we ak, emotionally dr ained, and put in a pl ace wher e e xisting modes of tr ansporting e veryday items no longer wor k, c ancer patients need a bag designed for e asy access from a se ated position th at holds all the items the y m ay need or want, and th at enables them to feel empower ed and in control. This bag must be e asy to c ar ry, func tional, and fr iendly.
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movement, space, and e ase
Seeing Christy interact with the scale of the bag I was considering, that similar to a small suitcase, confirmed my beliefs that the scale and shape was correct. We brought a backpack and a briefcase with us to compare, and there was no doubt the small suitcase form would be the easiest to maneuver and reach from the various places she would need. Most treatment centers have tables to set items on while in treatment; having the bag face either direction worked well no matter which side the table fell on.
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Listening to others. further ing understanding
I was fortunate to speak with two doctors, one nurse, one physical therapist, my mom and sister, and a few young women who have had a parent battle cancer. Hearing their thoughts and experiences deepened my understanding of the patient experience.
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Dr .Gr ant Le wis, Oncologist Nancy & JC Le wis C ancer Pavilion S avannah, GA
Dr.Lewis was kind enough to speak with me about my project as well as allow me into their facilities to photograph and observe. Dr.Lewis stressed the most helpful aspects of the paperwork organization system I was developing. From the Dr.’s perspective, having information about how many pain pills the patient took and how it helped may be useful information. He shared with me the preferred provider forms his patients fill out as well as all of the health questionnaires they use in office. We talked a little about the emotions associated with colors, the concept of the bag being customized, and the possibility of the customizing being tied to the cancer colors. When asked about pharmaceutical company’s involvement with Panion, Dr.Lewis explained they typically only sponsor items that aid their drug’s side effects. He spoke about their store, “The Transformation Station,” for patients, saying a fund raiser where community activists would sponsor giving the bags out would be a good place to start. Once the bags were familiar, centers like his would be the ideal place for them to be sold. Overall, it was extremely helpful to talk with Dr.Lewis. His enthusiasm for the bag as an oncologist was encouraging. Before we met, he seems slightly skeptical about my idea; after talking, he asked how much they would cost to buy for his patients. 27
Judy Fryer muth Physic al Ther apist Boston, M A
Judy is a kind and incredible woman who also felt compelled to help her loved ones organize their paperwork during their battles with cancer. Judy is also physical therapist, so she knows what goes on the other side of the table. She created a series of word documents and excel spreadsheets which she called the Mind Re-binder. Unfortunately, she no longer has these files, but she certainly knows the needs by heart. In a similar effort, my plan for part of the bag was to serve as just that: a place to organize paperwork you need to take with you. Originally, I thought a pull-out file system would work best, but after learning about the binder, that format seemed to make more sense. I knew a few of the paper items patients need, such as power of attorney, family health history, insurance basics, Q&A for the doctor, and advance directive, but I was unsure of what the doctors may need from the patients during treatment. Judy talked extensively about the importance of daily documentation and the different ways patients can record pain on a scale. She also confirmed my list of items, adding hard candy and a photo album to the list. I had not thought of a photo album, but both Judy, my cousin, Dr.Anne Wolff, and a young woman I spoke with who’s mother had cancer mentioned the photo album. I thought that was a great idea.
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Dr . Anne Wolff Medic al Doc tor St.Cloud, MN
It’s nice to have a doctor or two in the family; Anne is my cousin. When I talked with my mom about the project, she described how Anne gave my father a book to help organize and document his experience. It sounded very familiar to what I was making and what Judy had made, except it was bound. Of course, I wrote Anne and asked if I could pick her brain and where I could find the book. It was a great experience to catch up with her as well as collaborate in a way I never would have imagined. She sent me a copy of the book, The Write Track, which her friend’s mother and father wrote during her father’s battle with colon cancer. Are you noticing a trend? Those with personal experience with cancer are compelled to ease the difficult journey they know others will face; this sounds like me. Anyhow, the book and talking with Anne were both excellent resources. The format of the book was not nearly as versatile as a binder, but the content within the book was solid and very helpful. I borrowed ideas from both the book, my experiences, and my conversations with Judy and Dr.Lewis. When talking with Anne, I asked her about what her patients bring with them to treatments. Her patients, though not of cancer, often undergo chemotherapy. We also discussed the concept of control and how having some matter of choice in the bag design would be emotionally satisfying for the patients.
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Facebook Sisters In loss Book group
Personal Experiences: When my father was diagnosed in 2004, and I found few friends knew how to relate to my experience, I looked online to find an incredible network of people in a similar situation. One of the contacts I made was author Danielle Ince Thompson who was looking to start a self-help book for young women who have a parent fighting or having lost the battle with cancer. The book is progressing even today with an online forum for the contributors, a group of fifty young women who have written about their personal experiences with cancer in an effort to help others. I am a contributor and editor of the book. I wrote the group asking for their feedback about what items were helpful for their parent and what things eased the journey. The two responses to the left were less than what I hoped for, but I lucked out at a dinner conversation. A classmate’s friend was visiting, and she was excited to talk through my project. Her mom fought cancer, and she recommended a photo album to have at treatment. She also said her mom took a “chemo” blanket with her which she got rid of after she was in remission. I felt both of these tips were extremely useful.
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The Panion brand philosophy may be summarized in three words: friendly, helpful, & easy-going. The PANION BRAND
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H appy+He althy=Panion
The brand image must be one of encouragement, peace, energy, and joy. To achieve this, I first looked to happy colors, which in actuality are bright, vibrant, natural colors: healthy colors. The shapes and items that appeared when I looked at what made people happy informed my energetic, organic logo forms. The following pages show my process from visual studies, naming the brand, to sketches to revision after revision.
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Na ming the br and
Naming products is no easy task. I consider myself to be a fairly fluid copywriter, but given the heavy topic of cancer care, there were even more complications in selecting a name than a common product. Associations are always a consideration, and every name must undergo research. After dozens of names and many conversations, I selected Panion. Panion, as in companion, is not an actual word and has no meaning. I felt the name was friendly yet strong, just what patients need. For the logo design, I new I wanted to retain this attitude: to have solid form, an element of formality, but also a sense of care through organic energy.
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A touch of insanity? Yes, I drew this on my hand during my logo design process. I noticed my sketch lent itself to a heart shape, and I wanted to visualize the shape in real life.
Healing Hands: This small painting was a gift from a family friend to my dad when he was sick. They are called healing hands. I felt the metaphor suited Panion. Not all healing saves lives; some is for the spirit, the heart.
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pms: DS 246-5 U cmyk: 65, 0, 20, 0 rgb: 62, 194, 207
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pms: DS-32-1 U cmyk: 0, 50, 100, 0 rgb: 247, 148, 30
Color
Orange is a power color. It is one of the healing colors, said to increase the craving for food. It also stimulates enthusiasm and creativity. Orange means vitality with endurance.
In my interviews and discussions, I came to the conclusion that some element of choice is greatly appreciated in the process of fighting cancer (you have no control, so any control is reassuring and emotionally comforting). I know many While red is associated with fiery heat, orange is patients want everyone in the world to know they associated with the benign warmth of the sun. A are sick, while others prefer to keep it secret. dynamic color to be sure, orange offers a more thoughtful control than explosive red. Curiosity I decided on a neutral palette for the bag itself is a driving characteristic of orange, and with it with the interchangeable panel as a compromisecomes exploration of new things. allowing the personal touch (even a place for emotional connection with the signature option) Blue is the calming color soothing. That makes it or ambiguity that is desired. The color options a wonderful color to use in the home. double as a show of the type of cancer- like the ribbons, or as the color the patient likes. The base Turquoise is the symbol of youth, both the color colors are gray/dark gray; black; and tan/brown. and the gemstone. This color has a soothing af- These are for both men and women. I chose neufect. Turquoise is the color of communication. tral colors, thinking in terms of this bag replacIt contains the growth quality of green with the ing a briefcase or bag one would normally carry. blue quality of communication. Turquoise has The cancer treatment stores would stock neutral long been used in amulets to provide protection, colors and the panels separately so patients could health, confidence and strength. Aqua is the color make the choice there. The binder and photo alof high ideals. bum would be bright and cheerful in the Panion colors. The binder pages would be in black and Blue gives a feeling of distance. Artists use it to white for ease of photocopying, while the binder to show perspective. This is a good way to under- would be blue with orange section dividers. stand the energy of the color blue - it allows us to look beyond and increase our perspective outward. It contains a cool vibration that is helpful to communication.
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Final logo
The Panion logo reflects strength, calm, energy, friendliness, care, community, and support. The hand is a universal symbol of humanity; with the heart in the palm, there is an added sense of care communicated through the reach of the hand. The lowercase lettering of the logotype keeps the name humble, while the serif typeface gives a sense of formality to the design. The custom ligature of the “an� in the name further implies a connectivity, community, and support. The logo may be used in two colors (Panion turquoise and orange), one color, black or white. The logotype must be used with the hand icon, while the hand icon may be used alone.
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Typography Minion Pro & Futur a
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Minion Regular AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMm NnOoPpQqRrSsTtUuVvWw XxYyZz 1234567890
Minion Bold AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMm NnOoPpQqRrSsTtUuVvWw XxYyZz 1234567890
Minion Bold Italic AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMm NnOoPpQqRrSsTtUuVvWw XxYyZz 1234567890
Minion Italic AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMmNn OoPpQqRrSsTtUuVvWwXxYyZz 1234567890
Minion Medium AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMmNn OoPpQqRrSsTtUuVvWwXxYyZz 1234567890
Minion Medium Italic AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMmNn OoPpQqRrSsTtUuVvWwXxYyZz 1234567890
Minion Condensed Bold AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMmNn OoPp QqRrSsTtUuVvWwXxYyZz 1234567890
Minion Condensed Bold Italic AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMmNnOoPp QqRrSsTtUuVvWwXxYyZz 1234567890
Minion is an elegant typeface designed by Robert Slimbach in 1990 for Adobe Systems. The name comes from the traditional naming system for type sizes, in which minion is between nonpareil and brevier. It is inspired by late Renaissance-era Futura Book AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMmNn OoPpQqRrSsTtUuVvWwXxYyZz 1234567890
type with classic form and just enough curve to be friendly. For a product with a serious intention but a lighthearted attitude, Minion Pro was the perfect choice.
Futura Book Italic AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMmNn OoPpQqRrSsTtUuVvWwXxYyZz 1234567890
Futura Medium Futura Medium Italic AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMmNn OoPp AaBbCcDdEeFfGgHhIiJjKkLlMmNnOoPp QqRrSsTtUuVvWwXxYyZz 1234567890 QqRrSsTtUuVvWwXxYyZz 1234567890 Futura is a geometric sans-serif typeface designed in 1927 by Paul Renner. It is said, Futura has an appearance of efficiency and forwardness. The typeface is derived from simple geometric forms and is based on strokes of near-even weight,
which are low in contrast. As a friendly yet mathematically-driven font family, Futura seemed like the perfect addition to be used with Minion for the Panion brand. It is strong yet friendly, scientific yet human.
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Friendly, easy-going, customizable. The PANION Bag design
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I a m not a produc t designer . Or a m I?
It is silly to reinvent the wheel, especially when you are not an engineer. I will admit I was slightly terrified of having to actually build or render something like a product design. I can draw, but I have never ever created something of this nature. Then again, I had never designed a building or retail experience, and now I have, so the world is full of possibilities. My logic is, always: if I do not know about something and I need to, I will research. It seems like a simple enough concept, but there are certain things one needs to do, namely ask the right questions.
gan my research, I knew I needed to look at the solutions patients are currently using: briefcases, purses, backpacks, canvas totes, etc. What are the pluses and minuses of each solution? The main conflict I saw was weight; not one of these (with the exception of a wheeled backpack) is designed for wheeling when the patient is weak. Also, not one is designed for easy use from a seated position. I started looking at suitcases. No normal person would want to lug around a suitcase, but the ease of use and movement was appealing. If only it were a hybrid with a backpack.
I knew I needed to make a bag, and that it needed to function in certain ways and hold certain items. I also knew it needed to be lightweight, anti-microbial, and easy to use. Rather than reinvent the wheel, I chose to look at all the different options.
I looked at dozens of bags, from photographer’s to ER worker’s, to gamer’s to homemaker’s, backpacker’s to businessman’s. There were strengths in several I could envision as being helpful to patients. I began visualizing how the bag would be used and what it would need to work best. Style was secondary, but it remained in my mind as the product developed. I looked at athletic shoes for inspiration on how to incorporate color with neutral tones.
I am a pocket-o-holic. I love bags. Some people love purses or shoes (I like those too), but I love functional pockets. It’s a quirk. Needless to say, I enjoy and seek out intelligent bags. When I be-
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Protot yping
Fail often and fail early. These were tips from Peter Fossig, a SCAD industrial design professor and big promoter of design thinking. As I said, I am completely, 100% new to this. I began sketching ideas and failed often as he suggested. It helped to get my ideas on paper, even if they didn’t work. Some ideas stuck while others made room for improvement. My product is not revolutionary or the best looking of all bags, but it serves a purpose and does that well.
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Ge t ting physic al
In order to better understand my design scale and function, as well as get feedback from my peers, I created a to-scale very rough prototype out of recycled foam core and paper scraps. The prototype was just finished enough to tell me where I needed work and what functions I could improve upon. Also, I knew I needed to soften the look of the shape, even if simply superficially with a surface design. The final goal of the assignment was to create renderings of the bag so that someone would understand the bag functions as well as if it were physically created. I started drawing quickly, knowing I had to teach myself to think and draw this way. I can draw from life easily, but to create functional renderings of a made up product is new to me. I saw this as an opportunity to grow.
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It took me a little while to get used to drawing and thinking in 3D.
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I started by h and, and went back and forth be t ween the computer and h and dr awings. These wer e my first illustr ator r ender ings of the produc t.
Interior cavity would hold larger items such as: blanket pillow book lotion toiletry Bag
Magnets to close with interior zipper Pens & Pencils Nail File Chapstick
sweatshirt
Keys
ipad
Wallet
Also included in the interior cavity would be a pouch lining the back of the bag for the smaller items like books.
Drink holder Cell Phone Pocket
Panion Binder
Panion Photo Album
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In the original design, I was thinking of having the front two panels remove for customizing. The design needed work, but the concept was there. I needed to make it less suitcase like as well.
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R e thinking sur face Allowing personaliz ation to provide emotional me aning
Drawing inspiration from more casual bags and footwear, I generated numerous designs to add character to the bag. When I spoke with my professor, Jason Fox, he reminded me to think of my reasoning for the original design: I needed a simple, neutral bag that could be easily customized. The removable panel idea was a big hit, but what if I took it a step further? What if the bag became like a cast, something patients could have their caretakers and loved ones sign as a reminder of their support team in the journey. By using my removable panel for this, the patients could keep the panel, even after their treatment. Whenever they look at the bag, they will be reminded they are loved and never alone.
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These were my first photoshop drawings of the bag. I was figuring out the design and how I could render via the computer. Write on me! The colored panel could be a variety of colors, while the base would be one of three neutral combinations.
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M ater ial s
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Fabric: As the bag will be traveling through hos- and easy to open when wanted. The zippers open pitals with patients who may have weak immune to 1. the top of the bag to the inside cavity 2. the systems, it is necessary the fabric of the bag is anti- top outside pocket to an inner pocket 3. a side cell microbial. Tyvek, a DuPont product, is extremely phone pocket 4. a secret back compartment for versatile, as it is an anti-microbial non-woven emesis bags. fiber that is breathable, washable, printable, and able to adapt texture. The bag zips off the wheel Cording & Nub: The top and bottom front panbase, around the bottom and down the side, for els have a cord loop at their bases. Each loop cooreasy laundering. Dupont uses this material in a dinates with the plastic nub on the bag lid, allowvariety of products from uniforms to car covers ing patients to open and “hook” the panel to the to envelopes. The product can be stitched like any top for easy access to what’s inside the open panel. fabric as well as be dyed to any color. Zipper Pulls: As you will see, the bag has miniWheels: I went back and forth on a few wheel mal branding and coloration. This is intentional. options. Large wheels provide more stability on However, I took advantage of an opportunity rough terrain, while standard wheels are lighter when I saw it; the zipper pulls add an accent of in weight. It’s debatable whether the new 360 color to the bag as well as adding a brand element degrees are the best possible, but based on my throughout the bag. research of high-end luggage, they are the most popular choice. There must be a reason for this Snap-flat Drink Holder: The drink holder popularity, and judging by the aesthetic look of rests below the lid on the left side of the bag. I inthem, I am guessing they are popular because cluded a drink holder as patients need to rememthey work well, not because they look cool. That ber to drink lots of fluids. The height of the holder said, I decided to go with the 360 wheels. The base is perfect for seated positions when the bag is beof the bag is as wide as a small suitcase, so getting side the patient. When traveling, the patient may caught should not be a problem. Having the base want to close the holder by snapping the top and handle bar stabilizes the bag when it is not in mo- bottom sections into their respective ports, maktion while the wheels enable a smooth ride. ing the side flat with the exception of the handle. The holder is made of mesh so the drink can sweat Closures: The bag itself is designed for easy ac- as needed. cess, not tight security. That said, there are seven magnets and four zipping components on the bag, just enough to keep things sealed when needed
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Hi there. the panion bag
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13.5” 40”
Final design concep t
Nub
22"
Custom Panel
Loop 15"
Loop
85 7" deep
Comfort SoftGrip Grip
ID Card Emesis Bag Pocket
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Mesh Cup Holder
Cup Holder Snaps
Cord Loops
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Cord at base of flaps hooks onto nub Side View
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Cord at base of flaps hooks onto nub Front View Bottom Panel
Cord at base of flaps hooks onto nub Front View Top Panel Flap has stitched elastic strips for pens, chapstick and nail files Zipped pocket in back is ideal for wallets and medicines
front pouch is great for keys and ipod
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Top opens to the side flaps hidden to show interior
Lip of bag zips to top flap Top flap has magnets on the inner overlap to the front and left side for quick sealing. Interior zipper pocket for security Gloves Cap
Panion Binder
Panion Photo Album
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Top opens to the side top panel flap falls back into interior
When the top flap is open, the front panel can flip over into the cavity for access to the front pocket
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Panion binder
Much of the panion binder research came during my contextual research. I referred to my interviews, personal experiences, online forms, and the “Write Track� for additional guidance. My goal was to create the best possible system for patients and their caretakers. Making the system copy-friendly and adaptable aids usability. Every patient is different, so by giving them the option to alter and customize their system, the Panion binder becomes a valuable tool.
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following up
After completing the bag renderings and Panion book, I followed up with those who aided my research. In addition, I shared my final designs with some of my peers and mentors. The quotes on the right are some of what they had to say. This project represents a few things for me: applying ethnographic research to my design process; teaching myself, and struggling through to reach a point of comfort with, drawing product designs; and learning to think more three dimensionally than I normally do. Overall, I feel I reached a viable and well-developed final design that shows a truly human and user-centered approach. If I were to change anything, I would have sought more input during my early bag design drawings from people who are accustomed to product design and production. But, alas, we live and learn. This project stemmed from a very strong personal current, one that is dedicated to supporting the fight against cancer. The beginning phases of the project were very emotional for me, as I let my mind relive my dad’s fight three and a half years ago. Reliving this was a necessary step in my research, but it is never an easy one. Once I moved
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into the research and design phases, placing myself into the realities of other’s experiences and thoughts, I was able to draw my energies together and focus on the needs I saw. From the start, Panion had a very clear attitude, to be friendly, helpful, and easy-going, with a distinct purpose. This strong foundation guided my decisions as my research kept my concepts in check. Perhaps one day I will be able to manufacture the Panion and Panion binder to help those fighting cancer.
I think the files, organization and details are so luxurious-though that isn’t the right word I think you know what I mean. The thoughtfulness of design and personalization options would appeal to a wide age group and really help someone start to take control of their illness and battle not just through treatment but also through the insurance and medical jungle. It truly brought me chills to open the files and see how you organized things and see the picture- I was already picking out how I would personalize one. Dr . Anne Wolff
Nice concept and very good drawings. Tim Luscher, MFA fur nitur e Design c andidate
This looks fabulous! I see that you decided to call it the Panion bag... I love it and the hand logo is perfect! Judy Fr e yer muth
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