BEGINNER CREATION TOOLS SPECIFIC TO FOOTWEAR DESIGN Ruben Eriksson - Project Report | MFA Advanced Product Design | Umeå Institute of Design 2019

1 INTRO 01 DEVELOPMENT 05

Abstract 6 Curriculum 66 Background 7 Scenario 68 Collaborations partners 8 Product family 70 Opportunities 9 Boards 72 Ideation templates 74 RESEARCH 02 Prototypes templates 75 Ideation last+shell 76 Prototypes last+shell 77 Global footwear market 12 Linework 78 Main reason 13 CAD 79 Trends 14 App 80 Brands + society 16 Branding 81 “The best kept secret” 18 Problem 19 Pensole 20 RESULT 06 Investment 21 Social media 22 First Aid Kicks 84 Where to start 24 Sketch templates 86 Current tools 25 Shell patterns 88 Survey 26 Educational soft last 90 Interviews 28 Sketch overlays 92 Students 29 Process 94 Sharing 30 App 96 Education 31 Context 98 INDEX Exhibition 100 ANALYSIS 03 Reflections 102

Conclusions 34 FINALE 07 User focus 36 Project placement 37 Schedule 106 Stakeholders 38 Special thanks 108 Goals 40 Wishes 40

IDEATION 04

How might we 44 Adidas workshop 45 First steps 46 UID workshop 47 User talks 48 Midgårdsskolan pt.1 49 Workshop result 50 2D to 3D 51 Concept 1 52 Concept 2 54 Concept 3 56 Concepts into steps 58 Expert evaluation 60 Midgårdsskolan pt.2 61 Workshop results 62 Student evolution 63

2 3 Presentation of background and objectives of the project to give a clear overview of the topic. Collaboration partners are introduced and their specific 01INTRO roles in the project are defined.

4 5 ABSTRACT BACKGROUND

Footwear culture is a global phenomenon, and the The aim of this project was to investigate how to For my thesis project I wanted to explore and This project is also based on personal experience, urge to know how you actually design footwear is make knowledge more accessible, educational investigate how a future creation tool or platform since I am currently pursuing my own career as a rising. Online you can find questions about how and affordable, by working closely with users for the footwear design sector could look like. My product designer with focus on footwear design. you become a footwear designer – questions and experts. To create tools that can inspire others goal is to explore how this creation tool could I been through all the complicated and mysterious without any answers. The sector offers limited to start designing footwear, focusing on basic engage users in a creative process. It will give me steps on the path to enter the world of footwear education and tools – and there is no real starting principles – just like a first aid kit. the chance to work with up and coming creators design. point, or a place to learn the basics. of a new generation, as well as professionals during process of this topic, and hopefully improve I saw this project as a chance to offer other people the availability and knowledge when it comes to the starting point that myself, and friends of mine, creating footwear. didn’t have. A chance to make a difference in an industry in need of it. One current problem within this sector today is lack of information and guidelines for people in the early stages of building an interest for designing footwear. We live in a time when footwear is more popular than ever, but the path into the industry – to actually start designing these products – is still hidden. Today there is only one school in the entire world that teaches footwear design specific courses.

6 7 FEEDBACK COLLABORATION OPPORTUNITIES

To be able to get as much information about this Pensole – the only footwear design specific school The opportunity here is to tell the world that this During this project I also want to investigate if it topic as possible I want to work with as diverse in the world – is also going to be a collaboration profession exist – and on a wider scale, showcase is possible to capitalise on contemporary cultural stakeholders as possible. From the professional side partner in this project. They will assist with important that creative professions exist. During the thesis I movements to further spread creativity. With that I I will have a close collaboration with the Footwear knowledge about both footwear and education. will work with creators in different stages of their refer to the ever growing sneaker culture that has Running Department at Adidas HQ in Germany, Depending of how the final outcome of this project careers, footwear designers and product designers become a strong popular cultural phenomenon where I will perform workshops and brainstorm will come out, this school is interested in producing – just to be able to research what kind of creative during recent years. Is this ”culture” changing the sessions during the project. this tool, to get it out on the market. tools that are used for different purposes, to really way a younger generation look at footwear as a narrow it down to the foundation of design, in product, and could this be of relevance for a new I will be able to work with the whole footwear My main contact will be D’Wayne Edwards, order to find the common starting point for design/ creation tool? design team, taking advantage of a broad founder of the school, and former design director at creative processes. spectrum of experiences and backgrounds within Nike and Jordan Brand in the US. With new demands of experience and sustainability footwear creation. The idea is that this product will function as a when it comes to products, that will surely effect gateway into a creative process, no matter if the the future of creation processes. And this topic is end goal is to become a professional footwear also something that could be linked to the UN goal designer or not. To educate about basic knowledge number 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and when it comes to footwear, correct proportions, production patterns. perspective, etc. An entrance and a spark to something bigger, to teach about creativity and In general, this cultural movement is strongest in future career choices. exposed areas around the globe. Especially in the US, where a lot of homicides are directly related to Looking at UNs list of Sustainable Development sneaker violence. In areas where it’s to expensive Goals, we will find Education in 4th place. My to go to any kind of art schools, or maybe people aim is to try to meet their goals and desires, simply don’t know that these opportunities exists. while working with this project. Even while most Could creativity play a mayor role in these areas for of their points regard proficiency in reading and the better? mathematics, I believe that creativity too is very important to teach and to advertise. This is why I believe that this project is relevant for society – that you can showcase a creative “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education process through the creation of a product that and promote life-long learning opportunities for all” everyone can relate to. You don’t have to be the biggest ”sneakerhead”, but most of us has some This quote really stood out for me while reading kind of relation to shoes, and I find that story really through the “Education matters” on UNs site, and interesting. this is really something I want to achieve with my project – a product that makes it possible for On a wider scale I want to do research and map everyone to join and learn about something new no out different product universes. How could a eco matter age or interest. system and a omni channel look for a product like this. What are the relationships and how does this product connect with the users’ life, the society and the planet.

8 9 The research phase consisted of desktop research and user interviews. A survey was made to get detailed input from professionals. 02RESEARCH All this knowledge was later summarized.

10 11 GLOBAL FOOTWEAR MARKET MAIN REASON

The global footwear market is one of the fastest The increasing preferences of consumers towards One of the main reasons that the global footwear In the 1970s, New Yorkers in the basketball and growing market there is today, and is expected online medium are driving the sales through online market is increasing, is the rising sneaker popularity. hip-hop community changed the perception of to turn over $371.8 billion by 2020. Increasing retail websites. Retail stores offer a superior buying The rising demand for fancy, trendy yet comfortable sneakers from sports equipment to tools for cultural disposable incomes and changing lifestyles are experience to the customers, compared to online footwear among all age groups is a key factor expression. some key factors that influence the market growth. sales, thereby acting as the dominant mode of sale driving the global footwear industry. (1) (1) channel. Sneaker collectors, called “sneakerheads”, regard Since its invention in the 19th century, through sneakers as fashionable and valuable items. The global footwear market is segmented by type of This is leading towards a future where omnichannel sports, footwear has been about much more than Sneaker companies encourage this trend by footwear, end users of footwear, various platforms retail strategies will dominate. athletics – conveying ideas about national identity, producing rare sneakers in limited numbers, often at for sale of footwear, material used, and their sales class, race, and other forms of social meaning. (2) very high retail prices. across various geographies.

$371.8 SNEA- BILLION KERS

(1) https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/footwear-market (2) https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2016/12/sneakers-have-always-been-political-shoes/511628/

12 13 TRENDS CUSTOMIZE

The sneaker culture has been around for a while, Another growing trend is DIY (do it yourself), which and through the years there have been many trends is spinning-off of customizing your sneakers. Instead and different approaches to sneaker footwear, but of just decorate you shoes differently – with paint or there is three current trends that are of importance other materials, there’s a growing interest in building for this project. your own sneakers from scratch.

The first trend is also the biggest and most long There are classes and schools teaching people lasting trend for sneakers. It is about customizing how to build their own versions of famous sneakers. your own shoes. People have always been Now people can recycle their old sneakers into modifying their sneakers to stand out, differentiate something new, making sure nothing goes to from the mainstream and to showcase individualism. waste. This trend is all about craftsmanship and sustainability. Today “customs” are as popular as ever, and thanks to the many inquiries, “sneaker customizer” is now The last trend is about technology. The footwear a valid profession. Promoting your craft on social industry has always been in the forefront of media is an easy way to get attention and more continuously evolving technology when it comes to customers. new materials and cushioning systems. Constantly driving the industry forward. DIY

TECHNOLOGY

14 15 BRANDS + SOCIETY

Footwear companies are doing more and more Participants got the chance to choose between work to engage and include their consumers and existing shoe models to modify and customize RUN FOR THE OCEANS the society. To use footwear to do something good. based on their own vision. Being a contest, one winner was crowned for each city. This has been Last year, 2018, Adidas collaborated with a well documented journey where each winner the environmental organization and global got the chance to be fully involved in the creative collaboration network “Parley for the Oceans” to process behind creating a shoe. produced five million pairs of shoes containing of recycled plastic. And the aim for 2019 is to This is the result of the fact that people in general produce eleven million pairs. (3) want to be included more in the creative process, and Nike wanted to showcase that it is possible for Together they arrange Run for the Oceans where everybody to design their own shoes. nearly one million individual runners come together from all over the world to raise awareness and Reebok, on the other hand, flipped the old “bring funding for the oceans. you kid to work” formula and invited kids to their headquarters, giving each kid a footwear designer Nike launched another project 2018 to engage to work with to create their dream shoes, as a their consumer in an effort to encourage average campaign to create the next great sneaker with the people to be a part of the design process: the help from the most creative minds we know. “Nike: On Air contest” which brought thousands of participants to workshops in New York City, All of these activities from the biggest footwear NIKE: ON AIR London, Paris, Seoul, Shanghai and Tokyo. brands create more engagement and interest from Workshops where locals dreamed up shoe designs the consumer – to be able to make an impact when inspired by their communities. (4) it comes to designing shoes.

BRING YOUR KID TO WORK (3) https://www.worldfootwear.com/news/adidas-focus-on-shoes-made-of-recycled-plastic-waste/3612.html (4) https://news.nike.com/news/nike-on-air-winners-2018

16 17 “THE BEST KEPT SECRET” PROBLEM

With more and more people getting interested in Most of the footwear designers in the industry The demand and interest to be a sneaker designer There are a lot of forums today on social media sneakers, footwear design and the actual making of have backgrounds in product or transportation is definitely real. As soon as you go online to watch platforms about footwear design, where aspiring a shoe, the question remains: How do you become design, and have kind of found their own way into a tutorial of how to sketch a shoe on Youtube, or designers can share their work and thoughts with a footwear designer? the industry through contacts, or sometime just by different footwear groups on Facebook, you are met each other. accident. with the same questions: Referred to, by people within in the industry that There are a lot of questions about this subject, but actually design these products, as “the best kept So while it seems impossible to become a footwear How do I become a footwear designer? unfortunately, no real answers. secret” – one can only imaging that the path to designer at big brands such as Nike and Adidas, become a professional footwear designer is quite the doors to the industry are starting to open up a Where can I learn to design shoes? hidden. little bit more thanks to the growing demand.

DESIGNING FOOTWEAR

18 19 PENSOLE INVESTMENT

The lack of answers to these questions, was one of With a vision to provide the entire footwear Each class usually have a different sponsor. The Early 2019 it was announced that Foot Locker the reasons that D’Wayne Edwards quit his job as industry with the next generation of designers, the big footwear brands see Pensole as an arena to is investing $2 million in Pensole, to continue to Design Director at Nike, to found his own school, school teaches with a “learn by doing” curriculum, discover new talent, and that is why Pensole has promote a pipeline of designers. solely focused on footwear design, making it the through the entire footwear design process. From been doing classes with brands such as Nike, first and only design school in the world specifically sketching, materials, construction and manufactoring Adidas, New Balance, Asics and Under Armour. As the name of the Foot Locker sponsored classes dedicated to footwear. processes. indicate – Fueling the Future of Footwear, this retail During recent years the worlds biggest footwear giant is serious in its involvement to shape the future The school is located in the heart of the footwear Founded in 2010, the school have successfully retailer, Foot Locker, has also been sponsoring of this industry. industry, Portland, Oregon. A city that hosts the placed over 400 students within the industry since classes at Pensole. Taking their responsibility to care headquarters of giants such as Nike, Adidas and its start. The school offers different 3-12 week about the new generation of designers, that will Under Armour. Which directly creates a great courses all year around, and it is free of tuition. create the shoes Foot Locker later will sell in their connection between the school and the industry stores. itself.

20 21 SOCIAL MEDIA

Another way to get noticed, to be able to get into These accounts upload content daily – and are to the industry, is in modern fashion through social followed by both professionals within the industry, media. Especially through Instagram, which has and aspiring designers. turned into the LinkedIn for up and coming footwear designers. As an easy way to get noticed, and if featured different accounts, a person can go from a hobby As an easy way to share images, people are sketcher to become an influential footwear creator uploading and posting sketches, renderings and just over night. mock-ups of shoes. This has now become the primary community where people can connect, In this, still quite small community, the average share work and get inspired. person that uploads its own footwear designs on Instagram has over 1,000 followers, just based There are multiple accounts that will repost material on that activity. Which clearly indicates that more that they think is good, inspiring or just fits their and more people are interested in seeing footwear account style. The two biggest sharing accounts concepts being created and shared. is called Laceless Design and ConceptKicks, and together they have over 100,000 followers.

22 23 WHERE TO START? CURRENT TOOLS

To gain attention on social media, and to get re- So if you have an interest for footwear design, and Taking a look at the current market, there is only Another option to learn the basics of design in posted on the most popular accounts, you have to want to learn the basics about how to sketch and one option available to learn the basics of footwear general, is through the classic analogue way. With share already refined quality work. And to be able create, where do you start? Is it through regular design specifically. There are three types of different different rulers, french curves and templates the user to take a class at Pensole you have to apply with design education and schools you have to learn notepads from IDRAW, Render Demo and Laceless can learn about line quality, different forms and sketches, requiring some kind of skill quality and the basics, and specialize on footwear later, or are Design. shapes and practice to perform the task without the also that you have an interest for this profession. there other options? guidelines. These books have similar foundations, where linedrawings of different shoes are shown, for the There is also the digital way to learn, using tablets user to follow, and through that process learn how with different computer software. A more pricy to get proportions right for different silhouettes. option, but by going digital there is an easier access to online tutorials and other helpful media. As an inviting way to learn about the basics, the And with future tools like virtual reality (VR) and books are quite expensive, and limiting to the augmented reality (AR), there will certainly be format of workspace and the amount of pages. more intuitive ways to learn. But this segment is heavy reliable on equipment, something that is not affordable for everyone.

24 25 SURVEY

To investigate this topic further, I wanted to know The survey was sent out to different people and understand how current professional footwear worldwide with connection to designing and designers had discovered the profession, and also creating footwear. People from all kinds of how they managed to become a footwear designer backgrounds and different stages of their careers. in the end. Some that answered the surveys are still students that are aspiring to become footwear design, other I wanted to learn if there’s is a common starting are junior or senior designers, and some even point for people working within the industry, if they design leads. used any specific tools to learn the basics, and what they would recommend to someone that is So I managed to cover the whole spectrum of interested in pursuing this career. people and it was fun to see the engagement from the ones who took their time to answer. 31 persons To get this information I created a survey with ten answered the survey, and everyone has provided questions about this topic, where I wanted to know: valuable insight and important information to this Why footwear design, how, and where to start? project.

26 27 INTERVIEWS STUDENTS

To get a deeper understanding about this topic, I I also had the chance to talk with people that Two of the students I talked with, providing good Both students are well aware of the importance also conducted fifteen one-hour-long interviews with are working with kids in contact with society and information and interesting answers were Simon of social media presence and are often posting people that I thought could have insightful opinions creativity, to learn about a new generation of Leclercq and Viggo Blomqvist. Simon is a french sketches and renderings of footwear on different and stories to share. creative youth, how they see things and what they student currently studying his master in product platforms. value. design at ISD in France. During the spring he These interviews were not specific to footwear will be interning at the French sports equipment Another thing they have in common is that they designers only, but more to creatives in general, all I will present a brief summary from some of the company Salomon as a footwear designer. actually don’t know how a real shoe is made. kinds of designers, teachers, students and social interviews I had, talks and quotes that could They both feel the pressure of publishing work on workers. The main goal with these interviews was to be of importance for this project, from the three Viggo is doing his bachelors in Industrial Design social media, the focus is more to create a cool learn about the importance of analogue sketching biggest and current groups - Students, Sharing and at Umeå Institute of Design, and has a growing eye-catching illustration than an actual product. and craftsmanship, the future of 3D and if there is a Education. interest in sneakers and aspire to be able to Both students want to know more about the real common starting point for any creative process. become a footwear designer one day. manufacturing process, but they don’t know where to get that information.

15 SIMON LECLERCQ VIGGO BLOMQVIST “It feels like you have to be active on social media to “I don’t really no where to start, I just make something. become a footwear designer. A render could look And I don’t know anything about construction or mate- amazing, but the shoe looks like shit. I want to know rials really, so I just make up components so it will look how to make it real.” cool, but I have no idea if it’s really feasible or not.”

28 29 SHARING EDUCATION

Since social media has become such a big While social media is a good way to get attention I also had a chance to talk with D’Wayne Edwards, Another person that is fighting for education and influential part of the footwear design community, I and to get someone to discover your work, there is the founder of Pensole, whom is also one of the diversity within this industry is Sean Williams. reached out to Daniel Cocking that is the founder of also a backside. As mentioned by students Simon collaboration partner for my thesis, about education Being from New York, Sean is what you call a real Laceless Design, a community based platform. and Viggo, a lot of people feel the pressure to be and the industry. Being born in Inglewood, “sneakerhead”, he runs the talk show “Obsessive active on social media to become a designer these California, he said he was more likely to end up Snneaker Disorder” and a educational programme Daniel is working at adidas as a footwear days. in jail or getting shot, than to become a footwear called “Solecial Studies”. developer and created Laceless Design out of designer. frustration when seeing so many good footwear Talking with Mattias Borg, currently working as Sean is educating up and coming designers concepts getting shelved and scrapped. footwear designer at Hugo Boss, the problem But D’Wayne made it, as one of the first person and already established companies about became even more clear. As Mattias started to gain of colour in the industry during that time. He sees design, culture and business. I personally had The idea with Laceless Design is to showcase and more and more attention for his work on Instagram, Pensole as his way to give young people the the opportunity to met Sean last summer and share interesting and new footwear concepts, and the amount of followers rose, and the pressure to chance he never had, or wish he had when he participate in one of his workshops he had at to include and support this growing community of continue to creative quality work. was younger. Because the footwear industry is still Adidas headquarters in Germany, where the topic young and aspiring designers. lacking of diversity, minorities and women. was about diversity and cultural knowledge within the industry.

DANIEL COCKING MATTIAS BORG D’WAYNE EDWARDS SEAN WILLIAMS “We are doing this for the community, to open up as “If I didn’t post a lot of stuff, I never would be where I “Our industry has always been extremely behind when it “I have to make people aware, to educate future and much as we can for young designers. A good idea is a am today. It was fun in the beginning, but it quickly felt comes to women. Companies keep hiring the same peo- current people within the industry about design, culture good idea, and we want to educate like a Sunday job. Weirdly, all of the anxiety and stress ple and getting the same results. You can’t expect things and business. It’s just old white men. Nobody is through the process.” to post and to not lose followers made me to change if you don’t change. Diversity will bring educating on a younger level.” better at sketching.” innovation. That’s a fact.”

30 31 After deciding which problem areas I found most interesting, I analyzed them even further, so a clear problem description could be presented. 03ANALYSIS Conclusions and goals were set.

32 33 CONCLUSIONS -THE DIFFICULTIES OF PROPORTION & SHAPE Based on research observations, the surveys and The current social media is more about “like and interviews there are some important and interesting praise” than getting constructive and progressive design opportunities in this area. There is a need feedback. While it is indeed a good way to get -THE IMPORTANCE OF CONSTRUCTION for a starting point within this profession, where the attention, it has the backside of putting to much basics can be taught. pressure on aspiring creators. -KNOWLEDGE OF THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS Analyzing the survey results, 85% of the participants A new platform, or a product could be used to said that the hardest thing to learn in the beginning enlighten people that this profession exits, to spread is the proportion and shape of a shoe. The right the world and to spark an interest. This way new proportion of a shoe depends on the construction talent could be found, by simply letting them know -DIFFERENT SILHOUETTES, SHOE PARTS & LASTS method used, and this is an area where a lot of that this is a possibility. And if more people know, people don’t have enough knowledge, or know it increases the chances to catch the attention of where to find it. an unaware audience, which in the long run could -A PLATFORM THAT INSPIRE WITHOUT INTIMIDATE lead to a decreased lack of minorities within the It is also important to get a clear understanding of industry. the different shoe parts and silhouettes, that a piece -CONSTRUCTIVE & PROGRESSIVE VS. LIKE & PRAISE of footwear can consist of. Aspiring footwear de- Since more and more people are getting to know signers often has no experience of the importance about this profession and its opportunities, it is even of the shoe last itself, that is vital to the manufactur- more important to know about, and educate about ing process. its roots and culture. -SPARK AN INTEREST, ASPIRE TO FIND NEW TALENT

There is a need for young designers to have a The outcome of this project should be easily ac- platform to share their work, and to get feedback cessible for lots of people. That could teach you -LACK OF MINORITIES WITHIN THE INDUSTRY – if they don’t have the opportunity to go to a real about creativity and the product. The result should design school. A platform that will inspire, without be simple to use, easy to understand and carefully intimidate, that could explain the reality and that it is curated to catch the attention, and fulfill the needs, -EDUCATE ABOUT HISTORY & CULTURE indeed possible for anyone to become a footwear of the coming generation. designer. -SIMPLE, FAST & CURATED

34 35 USER FOCUS PROJECT PLACEMENT

My target group for this project is the new, Or they could know that this profession exists and I see the result of this project working as a gateway This project will live and place itself below the three impatient Generation Z. Young people that are are looking for a starting point. A way to learn the into the industry. It won’t be able to secure a job for most common, and specific, entryways into the interested in sneakers, shoes, sports, arts in general basics and get introduced to the world of footwear the user, but it will make sure that the user knows industry - Pensole, internships and Instagram. and have no clue that this profession even exists. design. what opportunities that exist.

INDUSTRY

PENSOLE INTERNSHIP INSTAGRAM

STARTER PACK

36 Z 37 EDUCATION INDUSTRY - Gain more visibility and ability to - Receive a steady flow of new, well reach out to untapped talent prepared and knowledgeable talent - Engage more people to pursue a - Get challenged for a future with more career within design ideas, innovation and diversity

STAKEHOLDERS

I envision the final result as being a kind of survival From the professional side, to the educational one, kit, or first aid kit, to learn the basics of footwear but even for the retail segment that could engage design. In addition to the end user, which will use their customers in a new way, which would only this to learn and get informed, I see four potential expand and enrich the growing community of stakeholders whom all could gain from this product. young aspiring designers.

COMMUNITY RETAIL - Increased involvement and growth - Educate the consumer about the - Connect people and provide necessary product creation process and quality feedback - Create awareness and new ways for - Showcase the power of impact of people to interact with the product technology and trends

38 39 GOALS

The outcome of this project should be a kit that The kit, or system, will focus on the basics means, teaches the basic knowledge about footwear cre- and function as a gateway or connector to a future ation. That encourages the user to interact and learn path within this sector. from the kit. Specific to footwear design – the product will aim It will result in a physical product, that offer guid- to spark creativity in general, no matter how much ance and inspiration to its user. you know about sneakers or not.

The physical product should have a clear life cycle, how you get it, how you use it, and what happens when you are done with it.

WISHES

The final product will be a part of a bigger educa- It will contain of a decided set of products that tion system, an eco system of products. With a together can offer the ultimate beginners education series of products, the user will be able to learn through a thoughtful omnichannel experience. different levels of the footwear creation process in depth. Thanks to this, professionals and aspiring designers would be able to connect more easy, to exchange This system will support the participant in a more feedback, tips or just common knowledge about the progressive and constructive way than the current profession. And all of this would result in a better, social media outputs. more diverse and sustainable future.

40 41 During the ideation phase I explored different concept ideas and evaluated these together with users and experts. 04IDEATION The focus was idea generation and problem solving, to be able to determine what features, appearance and functions the final product will have.

42 43 HOW MIGHT WE? ADIDAS WORKSHOP

To kick-off the ideation phase I travelled to Germany Based on the research conclusions I created four The workshop lasted for an hour and it was I spent four days in total at the Adidas to visit Adidas headquarters. The goal of the visit questions and topics that I wanted to ideate around interesting to see how engaged the designers Headquarters, and besides arranging the “how was to have an “how might we - workshop” with – to get the designers input and feedback. How became in these topics. Since all of them could might we - workshop” I met up with several some of the footwear designers at the Running could we boil down all of these, quite complex, relate to their own beginnings, it wasn’t too hard for designers for individual talks, just to be able to go Department. processes into something basic and understandable them to think back how it was then, and how they in depth around certain topics. for a beginner? would have liked to get this information. I wanted to take advantage of their professional The individual sessions included all levels of expertise and brainstorm around practical areas that And how would they like to support someone that After the workshop, I had a stack of post-its with all expertise Adidas could offer - Trainees, Interns, would be of interest for this project. wants to learn about their profession? kinds of ideas on. This would later be used as a Junior Designers, Senior Designers and Design base to start ideating around back at school. Directors. So I managed to collect stories, quotes and ideas from a broad spectrum of knowledge.

“YOU NEED TO UNDERSTAND 01 - HMW GUIDE THE USER TO SKETCH WITH 02 - HMW TEACH ABOUT CONSTRUCTION IN THE RIGHT PROPORTIONS AN EASY AND UNDERSTANDABLE WAY TO BE CREATIVE” - Matthias Schmitt, Design Director Advanced Creation

03 - HMW ENCOURAGE AND ENABLE 04 - HMW AS PROFESSIONALS SUPPORT A NEW HANDS-ON EXPLORATION GENERATION OF UP-AND-COMING DESIGNERS

44 45 FIRST STEPS UID WORKSHOP

During the visit at Adidas I managed to narrow the The anatomy of the foot then translates to the After the visit at Adidas I felt like I had a good We worked with questions regarding what happens footwear design process down to its core, based second step – right proportions. Different silhouettes overview about the practicalities that is necessary before, during and after use of the final product. on the talks and the workshop. The fundamental need different proportions, and the silhouette is also when creating a shoe, and the four fundamental How could the product look like, and how would starting point consist of four steps, that is important defined by the construction method used – which is steps is something that should be included and people interact and get to know about it. to know when designing footwear. the third step. This can only be taught at a footwear offered within the final result of this project. manufacturer at this point, and there is definitely a What happens with the product or system when the The first step is knowledge. The creator needs to need to make this knowledge more accessible. Back at school I arranged another workshop with user feels like its been taught everything already? know why a certain shoe looks the way it does, fellow students. This workshop was more focused After this session I was again able to collect a stack and all of this depends of the anatomy of the The last step is 3D – and is about knowing that on the bigger system surrounding the kit I wanted to with post-it notes as a great foundation to start foot. So basic knowledge of anatomy has to be everything you create in 2D will end up as a create. working on. provided. 3D-object, and this transition is much more complex than it seems. 1 2 KNOWLEDGE PROPORTIONS 3 4 CONSTRUCTION 3D

46 47 USER TALKS MIDGÅRDSSKOLAN PT.1

After having had workshops around the practical I made some phone calls to Generation Z At this point I had talked with professionals, design During my visit I was able to spend two hours side of the footwear creation process and the users, and I also visited a place in Umeå called students and my user group about ideas and topic together with a class of 16 students focusing on system surrounding the final outcome of this project, Hamnmagasinet. Hamnmagasinet is a youth for this project. But to really put everything to test arts and craft. The students were 17-18 years old, I felt I had to talk directly with my user group to recreation center where I was able to talk with as early as possible I wanted to try out some early so they were a perfect representation of my user cover the whole spectra. personnel and teenagers. concept ideas. group.

My target group for this project is Generation Z, From this I learned that most have their own iPad I contacted Midgårdsskolan in Umeå and asked if In the beginning of my visit I presented a little bit users between 15-20 years old. To be able to at school, everything is digital now, and when I could come for a visit and talk with some of their about myself and Umeå Institute of Design, just to know more about my consumer, I wanted to find out they learn, it has to be fast – quick progress and students about my project. Midgårdsskolan is a high give the students a taste of what product design is how they approach education and new types of results. This generation is so aware how they dress school with a creativity profile, offering education all about. Then I told them about footwear design, learning. and behave, and shoes are getting more important within arts and craft, dance and music. and asked if someone ever had drawn a shoe in these ages. Intel that could be of value for this before. The answer was no from all of them, and project. from there we started sketching.

WHAT’S COOL?

GEN- Noa Hultén, 16 Z

48 49 WORKSHOP RESULT 2D TO 3D

At first I asked the students to just try to sketch any This template was made as a result of the It was interesting to see how excited they became With some ideas already in mind I went back type of footwear. Some of them asked me where to brainstorm sessions. The template featured a simple after such a short session, just by enabling quick to school to try out the same procedure with my start, but I wanted to save the tips for later, so they outlined side view of a shoe, with guidance where results. These were their first ever footwear sketches, classmate Patrick. Patrick had never sketched a just had to try it out for themselves. to draw the tooling and collar lines. and it really felt like I managed to spark an interest shoe before so I gave him the same sketch template about learning more and try out new things, which I used with the students at Midgårdsskolan and told After a 10 minutes sketch session the students I held a quick five minutes sketch course where I was the main goal with that session. him to design a shoe. presented their work and I asked them what the used the template and showcased some typical hardest part was. As expected: the proportions, industrial design sketch techniques. After that each I asked the students for some feedback afterwards, After this I helped him to translate his side view into which was obvious looking at their first sketches. one of the students got a template of their own to and some wanted to have more views for the a flat shell. After that we cut some pieces of fabric, try out. templates, and others wanted to know how to make glued them together, and pinned onto a last. And I asked them to sketch one more shoe, but this time their design real. just like that, Patrick was able to see his design in using a sketch template mock-up that I had made in It was exciting to see the results of the students after 3D and could evaluate the design in the shape of a cardboard prior to this workshop. using the templates, especially surprising to see the finished shoe. different styles of shoes they made, all using the same template.

50 51 SILHOUETTE TEMPLATES FLAT SHELL WITH VELCRO PARTS SOFT LAST WITH PINS

CONCEPT 1

After the first initial tryouts with early mock-ups and After time the user can order more standard parts to ideas, I created three concept directions - one the flat shell, or get encouraged to create their own. analogue, one digital and one in between. The first The soft last will make it possible to pin different APP WITH DEMO concept was the analogue one. material to it, making it possible to “sketch” with different materials on a 3D object. This concept consists of a collection of sketch tem- plates, a flat shell piece and a soft last with pins. This concept comes with an application that the There would be different templates that the user user can download to their smartphone. The app could acquire over time, and build their own can provide the user with tutorials on how to use collection based on interest and engagement. and interact with the psychical parts – templates, shell and last. The tutorials work as sources of guid- The flat shell piece represents the actual upper of ance and inspiration. GROWING TEMPLATE COLLECTION COLLECT OR MAKE MORE PARTS HOW TO USE a shoe, teaching the user about the different parts, and how to translate the different template views The app can also offer information and knowledge into a flat pattern. The shell will be made of fabric, about the anatomy of the foot, so the user can learn containing different parts, and enable the user to more about the functions behind why footwear has pin those onto the soft last. Creating a representa- to look a certain way. This enables the user to take tion of how the user’s design will look in reality. part of all of the four foundation steps that I wanted to include in the final product.

ANATOMY KNOWLEDGE

52 53 LIGHT PAD WITH TEMPLATES REGULAR PAPER SCALE MODEL WITH PARTS

SILHOUETTE WARP TOOL

CONCEPT 2

The second concept is the one in-between analogue By downloading the associated app, the user can and digital, trying to bridge the gap between the take a photo of their sketched side view, upload two worlds. This concept consists of two psychical it to the app and get automatic feedback how the parts – a light pad and a scale model of a shoe. silhouette can be improved.

The light pad shows the outline of a side view, Another feature is that the user can use a warp func- which makes it possible for the user to place a tion within the app to see how their design will look paper on the light pad and then trace the shown on different kinds of silhouettes. This warp function TAKE A PHOTO AND GET FEEDBACK ADJUST TO DIFFERENT SILHOUETTES SYNC WITH LIGHT PAD TO TRACE silhouette to sketch with the correct proportions. also gives the user the freedom to tweak and experi- ment with different proportions digitally. The scale model of a shoe works as an educational piece, teaching the user about the different parts And if the user wants to sketch one of the warped that a shoe is made of. silhouettes created in the app, that silhouette can be transferred and shown on the light pad as a new underlay that can be traced over.

54 55 SKETCH TABLET WITH EVERYTHING INTERACTIVE SCREEN LAST

CONCEPT 3

The last concept is the most digital and futuristic The tablet makes it possible to sketch on a 3D ob- one. Consisting of a digital sketch tablet and a digi- ject as well, not only the flat views. When the user tal sketch last. The tablet offers all kinds of different has come up with a design they are happy with, views for the user to sketch – orthographic view to the tablet will guide to develop the idea further. perspectives, for all different kind of footwear. The user will be able to translate the different views Everything the user makes with the tablet will be sketched and the 3D model into a flat shell ready

mirrored onto the digital last. The last works as a for production. SKETCH ON 3D LAST UNLOCK SHELL PATTERN LEVEL CHOOSE TOOLING TO ORDER screen in shape of an ordinary production last. So that the user’s 2D sketch on the tablet will appear Since the upper of a shoe is cheap to produce 3D on the last. The digital last is also interactive, compared to the tooling, this system offers a number so the user can actually do the opposite and sketch of default toolings that the user can get their upper directly on the last instead, and all of those actions design produced with. This encourages the user to would be transferred into the tablet. go through the whole process of making a shoe, just to be able to purchase their own design in the end.

56 57 STEP 1

HOW TO USE

ANATOMY

APP

TEMPLATE COLLECTION

FEEDBACK

CONCEPTS INTO STEPS

Going forward, I evaluated the three concepts The second step would make the transition from 2D STEP 2 based on feedback, complexity and accessibility. to 3D, more hands-on exploration. To engage the CHALLENGES Instead of just choosing one direction to go for, I user to interact with a physical object. The app can mixed and summarized all of the concepts together push the user further, providing challenges and guid- and created new steps of advancement. ance from professionals. Other features in the app could be unlocked along the way. The first step would be the starting point of this whole system, which consist of a collection of sketch Step three includes the digital sketch last, without GUIDANCE

templates to teach the user about proportions and the tablet. The sketch last would be compatible with FLAT SHELL WITH SOFT LAST APP different views. These come with an app as support already existing digital sketch software. to provide tutorials, information and feedback, so the user can evolve with engagement. And in the end, as a last step, there would be the possibility for the user to make their design reality.

3D GENERATOR

STEP 3 + 4

DIGITAL LAST COMPATIBLE WITH OTHER SOFTWARE THE OPTION TO PUT DESIGNED UPPER ON AN EXISTING TOOLING AND PURCHASE

58 59 EXPERT EVALUATION MIDGÅRDSSKOLAN PT.2

After the new arrangement of the concepts I I wanted to know more about the transit from 2D to To try this out I arranged another workshop with The second group was asked to sketch using reached out to D’Wayne Edwards, founder of 3D at Pensole, where they have a workshop with the students from Midgårdsskolan. I invited them templates again. But this time I had made more Pensole, for more feedback. I presented the different all the equipment needed for footwear production. to the design school and held another two hour templates, so they were given all the orthographic steps and directions and we decided to skip the Since I had this idea with making a flat shell piece long workshop. Twelve students, in three groups, views and one perspective view, which they asked third and the fourth step for the outcome of this and a last accessible for all. participated. Each group got an assigned station to for after the first workshop. The templates featured project. create at during the whole two hours. more information, such as grid lines, to be able to He liked the idea to engage the users to do more translate design elements from one view to another. The first two steps are the most accessible and hands-on creation, and told me that the students At the first station I wanted the students to design easiest to acquire for new users, and that has been themselves can’t really use the workshop facilities their own footwear design on a flat shell piece of At the third station I had created casted copies the project goal for me all along, so it made sense at Pensole, because of all the machinery in fabric. They could use pencils and markers to draw of a shoe last just to see how the students would to take it back and focus on the basics, and how to combination with the American insurance policies. on it, or cut fabric and glue on top. They were only react when being asked to sketch directly onto the make it as simple as possible. allowed to design in 2D during the whole time, and 3D object. I gave them a last where I had already His biggest concern about the idea to introduce by the end of the session we would pin it onto a drawn out some parts, so they could use that as a D’Wayne was intrigued by the process so far, and a shell piece and a last this early in the process soft last to see how the flat design looked in 3D. visual reference when creating their own designs. especially about the templates. A set of templates was if the users would be able understand how a could be easy for people to get their hands on and sketch created in 2D gets flat, and then turned into start to use directly. a 3D object. Maybe this process would be too complicated to be a part of a starter kit.

CHALLENGES

HOW TO USE

CAREER ADVICE

FLAT SHELL WITH SOFT LAST APP

ANATOMY

APP

3D GENERATOR DIGITAL LAST COMPATIBLE WITH OTHER SOFTWARES THE OPTION TO PUT DESIGNED UPPER ON AN EXISTING TOOLING AND PURCHASE

TEMPLATE COLLECTION

FEEDBACK

60 61 WORKSHOP RESULTS STUDENT EVOLUTION

Once again I was happily surprised to see the final Without any guidance the template group managed A pleasant surprise during this session, was that So it was unexpected that this student brought his output from these students. This was the second to arrange the different templates and translate one of the student brought his sketches from the first sketches, and even more that he ended up in the time ever they were asked to create footwear. Each their designs from one view to another on a single workshop to use as a reference. All the material group that made the flat shell pieces. He then used group did an amazing work during the workshop, A4-paper. the students made during the first workshop, they his first shoe sketches ever to translate the design and it was interesting to see how they reacted and were able to keep, and I didn’t ask them to bring into a flat piece. We pinned the designed shell interacted with the given tasks. The group that sketched on the casted lasts got the anything to this second session. onto to a soft last, so he could see how his design hang of it real quick and started to understand how would look in reality. I documented the workshop with both photos and every line they drew behaved on the object itself. video, so I could look and analyze the material afterwards. During the session I walked around to And the group with the flat shell pieces really guide and ask questions about how they liked it enjoyed it as well. They were a little hesitant in the and I was constantly asking them for feedback. beginning to draw on top of the clean white fabric, but after I showed them some examples and made it clear that they could do anything with their shells if was full throttle from there.

SKETCH WITHOUT TEMPLATE SKETCH WITH TEMPLATE

FLAT SHELL PINNED ON LAST

62 63 Further development of the final concept. During this phase, I explored the expres- sion and form through sketching, three-di- mensional work and digital visualization. DEVELOPMENT05 The final design of the products is determined during this work.

64 65 CURRICULUM

At this point I had a clear overview over the During the 6th step of the system, the user can psychical products I somehow wanted to include collect experience points based on how many in the final result. I also needed a clear overview challenges the user participates in. By this time the

of the bigger system surrounding this starter kit. So user reaches step 7, and get more involved in this LEVEL1 I created a vision for how a curriculum could look community. The idea is that the community is mostly like for this learning platform. driven by the users themselves, so at this point 1. GET PRODUCTS 2. GET INFORMATION users can create their own challenges to share with The curriculum consist of 9 different steps within four others. The user could also get verified if providing engagement levels. The first level consist of steps good feedback to others, especially to the ones that 1 and 2. Step 1 is to acquire one of the physical need if the most, as an extra push in the beginning. products, and then the product will lead the user to the 2nd step, which is to download an application. If the user feels the urge to keep going, and feels This app will provide information and knowledge like footwear design could be a profession for the about footwear and anatomy, and includes different future, the user can enter step 8, at the 4th and last tutorials on how to use the products. level of this system. This level can be reached by collecting a certain amount of experience points, or The user will enter Level 2 of the system by creating by in-app purchase, showcasing that the user has a a user inside the app. This is the 3rd step of the serious interest in developing within this sector. LEVEL2 curriculum and enables the user to enter a new community of other people that are using these Now the user can participate in challenges made 3. GET CONNECTED 4. GET FEEDBACK 5. GET INSPIRED products and want to learn about footwear. by professional designers and, through that, request and get feedback from people within the industry. When connected to this community the user can At the 9th and last step of the curriculum, the user take photos of their work to either their own profile will get notified about future opportunities. Mainly if (to keep track of their own development), or to Pensole announces more classes, or maybe there’s share it with others. Sharing is only intended to an opportunity to get an internship at Adidas or generate feedback from others – for the user to get Nike for example. At this point it is possible for the better and strive to practice new skills. user profile to be visible for the larger companies registered on this platform. The community will not only make it possible for the

user to get feedback on their own work, the user As much as I would like to explore this whole LEVEL3 can also see a feed with work from all the members system, and how it could work in reality, in depth, of the community – to get inspired to continue this I came to the realization that I won’t be able to 6. GET CHALLENGED 7. GET INVOLVED journey. This is the 5th step of the process and the realize this whole vision during the dedicated time last step of level 2. for this thesis.

Level 3 is for the user who is eager to learn more. So, going back to the feedback session I had At this point the user can participate in different with D’Wayne, I made the decision to solely focus challenges posted in the community. These on the core of this project – to be able to offer a challenges give the user an extra boost to try starting point that is not existing today. Therefore something new – to fuel the creativity. A challenge I will focus and include the first 4 steps from this could be, for example, “This week, try to design a curriculum in my final result. This will work as the shoe inspired by rainbows”. base for the product scenario I’m creating. LEVEL4

8. GET ADVANCED 9. GET OPPORTUNITIES

66 67 When one of the products is acquired, the user downloads the app to watch SCENARIO tutorials about how to start. If the user feels the need to learn more about the parts of a shoe, or the anatomy of a foot, all the answers can be found in the app. The first step of the product scenario I envision is to get one of the psychical products. Either provided at school or purchased at a store. 2 3 1

5 (6)

Wanting to know more and get inspired by others, the user can create their own profile in the app to join and From this point it is up to the user explore the built-in community. to explore the community and all its features and challenges. 4 Inspired by others the user can document their work to share with the community, to get feedback, or just save to their profile for themselves.

68 69 PRODUCT FAMILY

When the product scenario was decided I was A soft last will be included together with a flat shell able to define how the final product family will look piece. These two pieces together will educate the like, and what components that should be included. user about the different parts of a shoe, and in the same time ease the transition to make a 2D design The final result will consist of a collection of sketch into a 3D object. templates, that will guide the user to create with the right proportions and perspectives. The templates To complete the product family there is an app that represent a generic silhouette of a shoe, teaching a works as a support for the psychical products and TEMPLATES APP good basis, but also encourage the user to create provide necessary information and inspiration for outside the boundaries. the user.

LAST + SHELL

70 71 BOARDS

When I decided the final components for the The simplicity should carry over to the interface product family I created three inspiration boards – of the application, to only showcase necessary one for product appearance, one for the interface information in a understandable and clean way. of the app, and one for the packaging. I see product packaging as a big opportunity to be The products should be simple and easy to more expressive and bold. And that itself could play understand, but with powerful detailing and clever a big part when it comes to attract new users for material choices. this kind of educational product.

PRODUCT APP PACKAGING

72 73 IDEATION TEMPLATES PROTOTYPES TEMPLATES

During the development of the templates I explored I was also thinking of how the templates could be While sketching, I created prototypes in the This really helped when evaluating the different how to handle the templates in the best way stored after use, and if it was possible to make a workshop simultaneously, turning all ideas and directions, and it made it easy to let other people possible, and how they could be produced in the packaging that was also designed for that purpose. concepts regarding the templates into reality. This try using the templates and see which version they most sustainable way possible, minimizing the The templates should be, and look, as accessible allowed me to experiment with different materials, liked the most. I explored different sizes for the amount of material waste. as possible. thicknesses, appearances and silhouettes. templates, to see how many that would fit on a regular A4, an A3, and in a regular sketch book - A5.

74 75 IDEATION LAST + SHELL PROTOTYPES LAST + SHELL

For the last and shell I wanted to make the most out I explored if there would be possible to form press I made a lot of prototypes for this development as The last and shell should be connected with the of this combination. To use the different parts in a a piece of paper to be able to sketch on top. well, since it was easier to try different sizes and templates, so I wanted the last shape to really smart way. I want the user to be able to sketch on Other directions around the last shape, parts and shapes of the last in 3D than just sketch it. This match the views of the templates. I tried out some a 3D object, but in the same time it shouldn’t ruin packaging were explored, together with the shell. made is easier to develop the right proportions. packaging ideas as well, together with the shell. the last.

76 77 LINEWORK CAD

When I knew all the views I wanted to include for Once I had the final design of the templates I could Based on the sketches, mock-ups and precise Here I could try out different packaging ideas and the templates, and I had formats and sizes that use those proportions and attributes to create the linework the final design was built in 3D using ways how the products could interact with each I was happy with, I spent some time to get the shape of the last and shell. This step was important, Rhinoceros. During the CAID development shapes other. The final result will contain of a set of different proportions and views as good as possible. because I wanted the shapes to be really precise and details were determined. psychical products, but I still want them to feel like and realistic. parts of the same family.

78 79 APP BRANDING

I based the development of the application on the The app can be seen as a teaser of what is That playfulness should be included and influence All of this were considered when ideating about the product scenario I created. This would decide what potentially possible, so I won’t go into detail and the name of this starter pack. I wanted the name brand identity for this project. I also had to please kind of information the app will include, and how define every single step. A couple of screens are and logo to somehow speak for itself, to make it my own personal criteria that the name had to the user can interact with it. showcased to get an overall feel how the app can clear what this system of products actually do. include some smart pun in some way. support the whole system. As a starting point, the tutorials should be easily The final result should be this starter kit that enables And while Kicks Starter was a good contender, the accessible and easy to navigate. This would later I wanted the icons and movements within in the the user to create, learn and explore something final name will be First Aid Kicks. As I put it in the determine how to continue and navigate among the application to be simple and easy to understand. new. A jump start, that could engage and enlighten project brief: other features available. And since it’s an educational platform it should also people. feel playful and inspiring as well. “I envision the final result as being a kind of survival kit, or first aid kit, to learn the basics of footwear design.”

80 81 The final products and the design are presented. Details and features will be high-lighted and explained.

06RESULT Showcasing the final exhibition and references. My own conclusions after this finished project are presented.

82 83 First Aid Kicks offers an inspirational, accessible The kits are focusing on both 2D and 3D creation, and affordable way to learn how to create helping the user to create with the correct footwear. Teaching the different steps of footwear proportions, encouraging more hands-on creation in a new and intuitive way. exploration, while establishing a foundation for quick progress. There is also a mobile application Consisting of four different creative creation kits - a to support the creation process. set of sketch templates, fabric shell patterns, an educational soft last and sketch overlays - these kits This process can later be shared on a new are turning a complex manufacturing process into community platform, making it possible for the something easy to understand. users to get feedback and input on their work. The app also offers helpful tutorials how to get started with the products and important basic footwear knowledge.

84 85 SKETCH TEMPLATES

The sketch template kit includes six different The templates are sized to fit one in a regular A5 templates that the user can use as guidance to notepad and to fit three of them on a regular A4 create with the correct proportion. The templates paper. The whole collection fits on one A3 paper. are made of 1mm stamped plastic, rubber coated DETAIL for grip. It comes in a pulp packaging that could be This set of templates offers the views of a generic use as storage place for the templates later, and a unisex shoe, with four orthographic views and two silicone band to keep everything in place. perspective ones.

One template consist of two parts, stamped from The templates for the orthographic views features the same piece of material to minimize waste. gridlines on the base layer, making it possible for BASE The bigger part is a base layer, that will provide the user to translate their design into the different the user with a basic silhouette. The inner part is views easier. a detail layer that indicates different parts and important lines such as the tooling top line etc.

1MM RUBBER COATED STAMPED PLASTIC

PRESSED RECYCLED PAPER PULP

SILICONE BAND SKETCH TEMPLATES COLLECTION ON A3

86 87 SHELL PATTERNS

The second kit consists of two fabric shell patterns, The detail layer of the shell template can be places and a sketch template in the same shape as the on top of the fabric piece, making it possible to shell patterns. These parts comes in a similar sketch parts such as heel counters and toe caps. packaging as the sketch templates, enabling both This template can be used to create new shells from easy handling and storing of the products. other materials, just place it and make a cut-out.

The flat shell pattern pieces represents the upper The base layer of the shell template is featuring the part of a shoe and will work as an empty canvas same gridline system, so if the user has the sketch for the user to design on. templates, its easy to translate their design onto a flat piece.

2 FABRIC SHELL PATTERNS

FABRIC SHELL

TEMPLATE

PRESSED RECYCLED PAPER PULP

SILICONE BAND

DETAIL SHELL TEMPLATE BASE SHELL TEMPLATE

88 89 EDUCATIONAL SOFT LAST

The third kit consists of an educational soft last that The last consist of three different parts - a top piece, comes in a cardboard shoebox - for extra protection the upper and the tooling. The top piece can be during transport. The last features graphics that removed depending if the user wants the last to be educates the user about the different parts of a a high top or a low top. shoe. If removed it can be stored in a hollow area in The soft density of the last makes it possible for the the bottom of the last. In the bottom there is also a user to attach materials onto the product using pins designated area to store pins. and needles.

MOLDED SOFT LAST CARDBOARD BOX TOP

UPPER

PINS PLACE FOR TOP

TOOLING

90 91 SKETCH OVERLAYS

The last kit is a 10-pack of sketch overlays. These So both the sketch overlays and the second kit with overlays are made of regular pressed paper, but the fabric shell patterns can be used together with instead of just being flat they have the same shape the educational soft last - supporting different kinds as the educational soft last. of creative explorations with the same object.

The overlays can be put on top of the last - making it possible for the user to sketch on the physical object, creating in 3D, without damaging the last itself.

SKETCH OVERLAY PLACED ON LAST

CARDBOARD BOX PRESSED PAPER OVERLAYS

92 93 PROCESS

All the kits can be used separately, but also This piece can be pinned on the soft last, making it together, as shown in this example. A sketched side possible to get an idea how the design could look view made with one of the sketch templates, can in reality - turning a complex manufacturing process easily be transferred onto one of the flat fabric shell into something easy to understand. patterns.

DESIGNED FABRIC SHELL PATTERN PINNED ON LAST

94 95 APP

When acquiring one of the creative creation kits The user’s personal progress can later be shared on there is information about the product on a sticker a new community platform, making it possible for placed on the packaging. The user is also advised the users to get feedback and input on their work. to download the supportive mobile application for The app also offers helpful tutorials how to get more information. started with the products and footwear knowledge.

96 97 98 99 EXHIBITION

Physical models of the four different creative The posters told a visual story about the products, creation kits were made in scale 1:1 - with the aim their functions and how to use them. During the to make them as realistic and production ready as exhibition there was a podium were visitors could possible. try out the sketch templates for themselves, making it possible to interact with one of the creative creation The models were exhibited together with two kits. This resulted in a lot of sketches from the posters during the annual UID Design Talks. visitors, showcasing an ease of engagement and curiosity.

100 101 REFLECTIONS

I started this project with a clear vision what I The research phase unfolded itself as planned, The success with the students gave me even more In the last weeks of the project I really pushed wanted to achieve. The idea to create some kind of making it a good start for the project. I was able to motivation and energy to finalize this project in the myself to finish strong. While that meant long days sketch template for footwear had been brewing for get in contact with a lot of people within different best possible way. Knowing that they enjoyed and at school, lack of sleep and social life, it was all some time, ever since me and a close friend came areas that I thought could be of importance for the saw value in the sketch templates made me believe worth it in the end. Because the reason that I chose up with that idea. process. in this solution even more. Since the template idea this topic to work with, was the same reason why has been quite dear to me, I was nervous the first I wanted to dedicate so much time for it. And While being on internships prior to this thesis I was Using the classic design process that I have learned time I really had to put it to test – to let someone that that reason is that this is a subject that I am very able to pitch this idea to other designers, just to see in school over the years I always felt like the never had sketched footwear before use it. passionate about, and a problem that I really care how the reception of a new design tool would be. project was under control. I had all the connections for. Especially during my time at Adidas I felt like this I needed from both the professional and the The involvement, encouragement and interest from was the perfect opportunity to check if people think educational side when it comes to footwear, but people during this project have been outstanding. This was the reason why I never lost focus and this would make sense or not. at times I was challenged from school that I didn’t All their support and feedback helped me to finalize motivation during the project. And at times really knew my own target group. the project in a qualitative and worthy way. when it felt tough to keep going, I was lucky to When I noticed how interested and excited people be surrounded by amazing classmates that all got about this topic, I decided to choose this as the Here some uncertainties grew. Was the project Looking back at the result, I am happy and proud supported and helped each other during the last subject for this project. topic too unclear for people who is not interested how it turned out. I was able to push myself in new weeks before examination. in footwear to understand? Was I simply doing this direction and to try out things I never tried before. I saw it as a great project to end my studies. A project only for myself? The final result is something that could be produced And seeing how the project has been received personal project that somehow would tie the knot and sold today, with the right help and support, so at the examination and at the final exhibition has of my own journey - from car painter to a Master’s But with the strong belief that the lack of knowledge in that sense I succeeded with that vision. been an absolute joy. Of course some people still Degree in Advanced Product Design. A project that within this sector is a real problem, I kept searching did not understand why this starter kit for footwear would enable me to include a lot of people during for the right answers and more evaluation. I developed an app, creating wire frames and all is needed, and sometimes it has been hard for me the whole process - a lot of people that I already that interactive stuff that comes with it. This was the to really explain it in a brief and condensed way. know, with amazing expertise in this field. This search lead me to a group of students at first time I have included interaction design to that But the ones that understand - and are invested in Midgårdsskolan in Umeå, as previously mentioned extend in a project, and this was something I really this have been nothing but positive, and that really I also wanted to achieve something else compared in this report. Finding these students was a great wanted to explore and try out, because I believe means something. to my earlier school projects. While most of the turning point for this project, and an establishment that interaction design will blend more and more projects we are doing at the university only ends that I was on the right track. with product design in the future. Some designers and teachers even said that they up as cool portfolio concepts, these visions are far liked the project because it was addressing us from realization and production. With this project I Being able to have workshops, try out material Looking at the goals and wishes I created for this as designers ourselves, and not only focusing on wanted to challenge myself to end up with a quite and prototypes with the perfect user group for this project I feel like I succeeded to fulfil all of the set someone else’s needs, going against the norm in simple and production ready result. project was invaluable for the project progress. To goals and most of the wishes, something that I am that way. get feedback and input from an inexperienced, but really pleased about. When the project finally kicked off I wanted to excited crowd turned out to be more progressive And while I wasn’t exactly planning to achieve that make a profound research to widen the scope a than the feedback from the experienced designers My own time plan and work ethic has been crucial with the final result, I’m happy that this project been bit - to find more opportunities than just the idea of themselves. for this project, and is the main reason I was able able to evoke thoughts and excitement for a lot of having a set of sketch templates. I was a bit afraid to end up with this result. I put a lot of emphasis in people. that I would already lock myself in with the idea of Where the professionals could be stuck in their own planning the interviews, meetings and workshops the templates, because I had been thinking about ways, or maybe having too much experience and during the project to be able to collect as much All and all this have been the perfect project to end this idea for a long time. Could I just go for it? Was knowledge – the students from Midgårdsskolan expertise as possible. this roller coaster ride at the design school. And I’m it enough? Or was it time to kill my darlings? gave uncensored and spot-on feedback. thankful that I been able to do it my way.

102 103 This chapter includes the intended time schedule, together with some last words 07FINALE and shout outs.

104 105 SCHEDULE

Research Analysis Ideation Evaluation Refinement Deliverables

04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 DESKTOP RESEARCH / INTERVIEWSSURVEYS / FOCUS AREAS / PERSONA / DEFINE AREASUM UP OBSERVATIONS STORYBOARD / CREATE ADDITIONAL RESEARCH / GOALS & WISHES SCENARIOANALYZE FINDINGS POINTS / PAIN VISIT / PREPARE BRAINSTORMING / WORKSHOP ADIDAS HQ AT INITIAL IDEAS / CONCEPT SKETCHING DIRECTIONS CONCEPT MOCK-UPS / CONCEPTS EVALUATE EVALUATION EXPERT / EVALUATION USER CONCEPT REFINE / FEEDBACK SUMMARIZE DIRECTION CONCEPT FINAL DEFINE / REFININGEXPERT / CAD VALIDATION MODELING MODELING CAD / REFINING RENDERINGS MAKING / MODEL RENDERINGS MAKING / MODEL MATERIAL PRESENTATION PRESENTATION / FINALIZATION REPORT FINISH / MATERIAL EXHIBITION REPORT FINISH / MATERIAL EXHIBITION EVALUATION EXPERT / EVALUATION USER

Hand in Design Brief 18/2 Ideation Presentation 18/3 Concept Presentation 15/4 Hand in Thesis Report 10/5 Examination 20/5

106 107 SHOUT OUTS

SPECIAL THANKS

To end this report, I like to say thank you to Family and friends in Västerås. Classmates. The staff Ulrika Eriksson Alejandro Mandrion the ones that have been supporting and helping at UID. The running footwear design department Roger Eriksson Pontus Edman out during this project process. This would not have at Adidas. Pensole. The students and teachers at Hanna Eriksson Lu Zheng been possible without the guidance and motivation Midgårdsskolan. Estudio Ocho. Keff Design. Other Per-Inge Gustavsson Patrick Krassnitzer from friends, tutors and professionals. friends all over the world. Birgitta Gustavsson D’Wayne Edwards Marianne Beigren Moritz Hoellmueller Denis Vilenica Neale Barnes Anton Ingvaldson Thomas Degn Thea Burlin Per Sihlen Mattias Borg Oscar Björk Jakob Dawod Linda Bogren Rowena Lee Simon Fredriksson John Sandin David Risberg Mattias Cederberg Andreas Trella Erik Jonsson Lina Ny Max Gustavsson Tobias Landhage

108 109 Ruben Eriksson – Project Brief MFA Advanced Product Design Umeå Institute of Design 2019