Thoughtfully designed physical products
I build software products in my day job, but anytime I come across a thoughtful and well constructed physical product, I wish I was in the brainstorming rooms where these ideas are being conceptualized.
Here are 5 physical products that I enjoy, but before diving in, some principles to evaluate them.
Principles:
1: Function: Is it solving a problem(bonus points for many!) for the end customer?
2: Ease-of-use: Can my mom use it?
3: Cool-ness factor: Would my friends think its fun enough and want to buy one too? (aka: business viability)
#1: Backpacking bags
There is so much functionality built into a backpacking bag - multiple pockets, ability to open from the top and bottom, hooks to hang shoes and walking sticks, whistle, highly adjustable and ergonomic back and shoulder straps.
I love watching the REI videos on best ways to pack and organize the weight. On one level, it has a learning curve -- or maybe not -- just stuff everything in a bag? Not sure my mom would be on board with that.
Imho, these bags makes a person look cool and adventurous. Plus, no need to wait at the baggage claim on an adventurous travel trip around the world.
(Link to my backpack: https://www.rei.com/product/177498/osprey-ariel-55-pack-womens)
#2: Filter Coffee makers
Being from India (India is the 7th largest exporter of coffee in the world!) and Karnataka (the largest coffee producing state in India), I've always loved a good filter coffee (coffee decoction stirred with boiled milk and sugar)
After having experimented with a coffee machine, mokka pot, and local coffee shop lattes, the steel filter coffee maker stands out as the easiest to use.
It produces delicious filtered coffee goodness with finely ground beans and hot water. Its easy to clean and easy to store. My family has been using one since many generations - a time tested (think decades!) product.
Friends seem to always enjoy a good filter coffee when they come home #win
(image credit: https://www.steffisrecipes.com/2016/09/filter-coffee-traditional-south-indian.html)
#3: USB mug warmers
When WFH was at its height in the winter of 2020, a secret santa gift resulted in the discovery of the greatest addition to a work desk. A USB mug warmer: It warms up exactly 1 cup to the optimum temperature (i.e. not scalding hot ever).
I love a warm cup of (filter) coffee or tea that is at an arms distance away. It is now a highly sought after white elephant gift. The plug-and-sip model does have a small learning curve (sorry mom!)
(image credit: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-mug-warmers/)
#4: Solo Stove
One of the best parts of camping is the campfire. Watching the fire is mesmerizing by itself, but the tad bit of smokey smell and warmth is unbeatable. Solo stove brought that experience to our backyard!
Dump the wood in the stove and fire it up - Its functional, minimal smokey-ness in the air and hella warm. Also super easy to clean. How much more functional and easy to use can it get?
(Image credit: https://www.solostove.com/en-us/p/solo-stove-bonfire)
#5: Traffic signal crossings that have a button near the leg
This one really blew my mind in Hawaii and I cannot believe other parts of the US don't have this.
From a pedestrian-first safety mindset, its great that we can press a button to halt traffic at road crossings. Huge win for functionality and ease of use. However, it has always irked me to use my hands (even pre-covid!).
You achieve the same outcome with a little kick. I think its pretty thoughtful when you don't want to use your hands(or your elbows) on a commonly used surface!
(image credit: https://www.designboom.com/design/dropkick-handsfree-pedestrian-crossing-button-post-pandemic-05-22-2020/)