Design consultants like BlueSky can't be an expert in every type of product. For this reason, extensive research is an essential part of the design process. BlueSky designers work with the client and other experts to research both the product and user requirements. They also identify and analyse design trends to understand the market. This research process is repeated for each new product they design.

In 2002-2003 BlueSky collaborated with the Australian company Victa to design their latest range of lawnmowers. The result was a number of different models for home and professional users, with modifications to the same basic design to suit the needs of the different users.

A full-size prototype was repeatedly tested and modified by hand to find the most efficient shape for inside the deck. The
internal shape for the deck was essential for the catcher to work effectively.

As part of the research process BlueSky investigated different types of customers and their needs. They found that professional users, garden lovers and 'price rational' customers look for different features in a mower - such as speed and durability, extra features or value for money. But they all have the common need for an ergonomic lightweight mower that cuts and picks up grass. The designers worked with ergonomic experts, engineers and mower sales staff over the two-year development phase.

'We wanted to bring the lawnmower into the modern product age.'
- Henri Spaile, Associate Design Director, BlueSky Creative, 2005

'It's not only how it looks, but how it feels, its weight - looking across the board at all aspects of the product that really brings the full response from the user and makes it something that people are proud to own and enjoy to use and overall increases the quality of life of the user.'
- Henri Spaile, Associate Design Director, BlueSky Creative. 2005

Angelique Hutchison
Curator
October 2005

+ Australian product design

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