Based on the statement on the bottom of the BEEP Mug, designer Colin O’Dowd seems to think that the bar code has been highly undervalued by designers. I can’t say I agree with him. If anything, bar codes have become way too prevalent in our daily lives.
The design of the BEEP Mug is, however, unusually interesting. A bar code wraps around the mug instead of just being a small addition to an otherwise complete design, and it also has the functionality of a real bar code--you can scan it on any bar code reader.
Costly Coffee Cups
Colin O'Dowd Makes the Bar Code the Center of Design with the BEEP Mug
Trend Themes
1. Bar Code Design - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore ways to incorporate bar codes into product design to add functionality and aesthetic appeal.
2. Functional Packaging - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop packaging designs that serve a dual purpose, such as offering additional functionality like a bar code.
3. Interactive Product Packaging - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create packaging that engages and interacts with consumers, such as through scannable bar codes.
Industry Implications
1. Product Design - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Redefine how products are designed by incorporating bar codes in unique and creative ways.
2. Packaging Design - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Transform traditional packaging design by integrating features like functional bar codes.
3. Retail - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Enhance the retail experience by incorporating interactive packaging with scannable bar codes.