The Name for my artifact: absorbees
I used the above evaluation form (similar to concept evaluation form in Week 5) for the brand name that I chose for my artifact. I went with a brand name rather than just a product name because I think the brand can apply to various products that are similar to my umbrella bag product. Absorbees perfectly describes my artifact: a bag that can accommodate a portable umbrella while absorbing excess moisture so that when the user removes it from the bag (ex. during commute) the umbrella won't drip excessively. I realized, during the concept evaluation phase that there are other similar needs that an absorbent bag can address: a bag for wet clothes (swimming, gym), a bigger bag for longer umbrellas, a bag for carrying a cold water bottle, a bag for carrying wet items from the grocery. So, Absorbees is the kind of brand that can address those needs while also perfectly addressing my umbrella bag artifact.
My Beta Artifact
My artifact, the Absorbees Umbrella Bag, can accommodate different-sized portable umbrellas. The drawstring can help manage the different sizes and it also serves as a handle or loop that the user can use while commuting (hang on bag or loop on wrist). The umbrella bag is made of waterproof material on the outside and has a microfiber lining on the inside (to absorb wetness from the umbrella). The umbrella bag includes a waterproof pocket that can accommodate loose change, train ticket/ card, ID and some bills. It's secured by a velcro flap so that there's no chance of these items spilling out. I also made components (lining, pocket and outside material) contrasting colors for a more stylish look. I personally use this beta prototype and I'm very happy with the results. No dripping in my purse and no excessive dripping when I pull it out of the bag.
Progress from my very first prototype
My very first prototype still had a velcro strap to adjust to different umbrella sizes. My beta prototype is already streamlined to accommodate different sized portable umbrellas without needing a velcro strap. My first prototyped also did not have the waterproof pocket (which addresses a latent need in my subsequent user interviews). The lining was also made of a face towel and not yet the microfiber material that I used later on for my beta prototype. It's come a long way!
The Gap/ Problem Statement
In what way might I store my portable umbrella in my purse while absorbing excess water from it so that I don't wet my purse and so that I can take it out again and use it without dripping too much?
Primary User Needs
- The bag will not wet the contents of one's purse or gym bag
- The bag accommodates different sized portable umbrellas
- The bag does not have a bad smell
- The bag is washable
- The bag isn't easily left behind/ forgotten
- The bag is dual purpose
- The bag is light weight
- The bag is durable
- The bag makes it easy to handle the umbrella
- The bag is attractive/ stylish
Next Steps/ Refinements
My next steps would be:
- To look for a supplier of the raw materials to drastically reduce the cost of making the umbrella bag (and other similar absorbent bags). Also, I want to explore nicer colors/ design/ prints for the waterproof material. According to my alpha product testers, they expect the umbrella bag to cost no more than Php 50 or roughly, a little over $1 (1 US Dollar), considering that the bag doesn't come with an umbrella. That's another concept as well: If I make this a product, I should consider selling it with an umbrella (but that's a totally different direction).
- Look into how I might design a longer version (for regular-sized traditional umbrellas) such that it won't be a hassle to pull out of the bag. Maybe a zipper would be more convenient for a longer bag.
- Applying for a patent for my design. :-) While I might not make this into an outright business, it would be a good learning experience for me to file for a patent.
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