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.
What's Driving This Trend
- Bar Code Design
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore ways to incorporate bar codes into product design to add functionality and aesthetic appeal.
- Functional Packaging
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop packaging designs that serve a dual purpose, such as offering additional functionality like a bar code.
- Interactive Product Packaging
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create packaging that engages and interacts with consumers, such as through scannable bar codes.
Who This Affects Most
- Product Design
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Redefine how products are designed by incorporating bar codes in unique and creative ways.
- Packaging Design
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Transform traditional packaging design by integrating features like functional bar codes.
- Retail
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Enhance the retail experience by incorporating interactive packaging with scannable bar codes.
