Project One
Effective/Ineffective Design
Effective: Recycling Bin
This recycling bin is simple. The universal recycling symbol is displayed on the front. The opening, a defined circle, indicates to users that only bottle-like objects could and should fit. Therefore, even from afar, a user may infer, even without the text, that the bin only accepts specific items. Furthermore, although blue may not be the universal standard of recycling across the United States, the color is the standard at Carnegie Mellon University. Thus, the blue indicates to the user that Additionally, the blue does not overwhelm the receptacle but is adequately concise.
Ineffective: Trash Bin
The trash bin is also simple. It’s clear to the user that the handle is used to pull, and, subsequently, the user can throw away trash. I acknowledge that this trash bin is a solar compacter and has deeper functionality than just a typical receptacle. However, I am critiquing that users are forced to engage a pull motion, which is challenging and unhygenic. The pull motion is not friendly to someone holding larger than a handful of trash. Additionally, the user is likely to spill or drop items during this process. Through observations, I’ve noticed that users dislike the experience specifically because of the unhygienic nature of the process. The trash bin is also not friendly to thorough cleanings. Below I’ve included a picture of the inside.
