FURTHERING THE RECLAIMED MATERIALS EXPERIENCE

Abstract

A comprehensive study of the reclaimed materials industry and ways it could be improved from a management standpoint by working through a Design Management problem solving approach. Project Objectives: To improve the sourcing of reclaimed materials within a local arena. To develop a framework using these improvements that could be replicated on a larger scale throughout other Habitat ReStores. To improve design research and development skills and demonstrate gained knowledge through a project that would cover a broad spectrum of Design Management principles. Scope of Work: The topic is specifi cally related to the reclaimed materials industry and ways to improve the buyer's and seller's experience in relation to the location and sale of materials as seen through the lens of the Habitat ReStore structure. Concepts contained within this presentation have been developed through the collection of qualitative and quantitative research data, user testing, prototyping, applied design methodology, and existing references. Problem: Reclaimed building materials are everywhere but finding them is difficult. How does design apply? Examine the problem through the eyes of the customer and apply the gathered data to produce new solutions that will improve the experience for both the buyer (customer) and seller (ReStore). Solutions: Provide a set of potential changes to the physical space to improve the customer's experience. Provide a set of potential changes to the virtual space that would improve the customer's experience.