MyMAYOStand
Fall 2023 | Microsoft Office, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop
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What is this project?
The MyMAYOStand project involved designing a functional yet aesthetically pleasing notepad tailored to the needs of surgical nurses, created in collaboration with the CEO of MyMAYOStand. The goal was to craft a product that not only supported the busy, high-pressure tasks of surgical nurses but also added a touch of positivity to their work environment. While the notepad needed to be highly functional for recording critical information during operations, it was also important that the design felt uplifting and enjoyable for the nurses who would use it. This unique combination of practicality and aesthetic appeal set the product apart from anything currently available in the market, creating a more engaging and positive experience for users in a challenging field.
How did I prepare?
To prepare for this project, I conducted thorough research into the needs and workflows of surgical nurses. This included interviews and consultations with healthcare professionals to gain insights into their routines and pain points. I also researched existing products on the market to identify gaps in functionality and design. Most of the current tools for nurses were either overly utilitarian or lacked the thoughtful design that could make a busy workday more pleasant. Understanding this, I focused on designing a notepad that was not only functional but also brought joy and lightness to the nurses’ day. This insight informed my design approach, which balanced practicality with fun, bright aesthetics. Additionally, I worked on the copywriting, ensuring the text was clear, concise, and encouraging, adding a positive tone to the product.
How did I put my plan into action?
In the design and production phases, I focused on creating a product that was both useful and uplifting. I worked iteratively, adjusting the layout and design elements based on feedback from the CEO and healthcare professionals. The notepad included sections for essential information, quick notes, and checklists, but also incorporated playful and bright visual elements to evoke positivity. I made sure that the design was not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, with colors and patterns that could help nurses feel more energized and happy during their demanding shifts. The copywriting emphasized a cheerful tone, reinforcing the idea that the notepad was not just a tool but a small source of joy during the day. The final design was durable, easy to use, and brought a sense of warmth and cheerfulness to an otherwise stressful work environment.
What were my results and lessons?
The result of this project was a notepad that not only met the practical needs of surgical nurses but also contributed to their emotional well-being during long, demanding shifts. The product’s launch on Etsy resulted in a 50% increase in sales, demonstrating its appeal to the target audience. Customer feedback highlighted the notepad’s perfect balance of functionality and fun, with many nurses expressing how much they appreciated having something cheerful and useful in their daily routine. A key challenge I faced was maintaining the balance between function and aesthetic appeal without overcrowding the design. I overcame this by refining the layout and visual elements through continuous iteration and feedback from both the CEO and potential users. This experience reinforced the importance of integrating user feedback into the design process and taught me valuable lessons about balancing creativity with practicality. In the future, I’ll continue to prioritize both form and function, knowing that design has the power to positively impact people’s work and lives.