Managing menstrual blood has evolved significantly, but innovation in sanitary pads has stagnated over the past 60 years, focusing only on absorbency and fit. Core experiences like purchasing, packing, using, and disposing of pads remain unchanged. Through primary research, Bonny identifies key pain points and applies the Halpern method to redesign a better overall pad experience.
Design Research
Brand Design
Product Design
Prototyping
June Lee
Audrey Ji
Advised by Ian Halpern
& Louise Manfredi
Figma
Adobe Illustrator / Photoshop
Halpern Method (Prototyping)
2024 Fall
(6 Weeks)
After surveying and interviewing over 90 women, we came to a conclusion that a lot of women are going through the same problem with menstrual pads, but were not shared or talked about. We identified 4 common problems.
With an overall theme of our brand being discreet, we aimed it to feel relieving and refreshing.
Bonny pads package is consisted of 4 main components. Each component targets a problem from regular pads and solves it.
How might we make the pad more stable and fit diverse body tyoes?
Pads are designed to have a longer front part and a slightly pointed shape for an easier indication. The angle and the shape of the wings are also adjusted so the pad position would be more fixed once attached.
How might we make using pads in public less stressful?
By introducing a new disposable packaging design, we addressed the issue of used pads unraveling when discarded. The packaging features a built-in pocket that, when flipped around, securely seals all corners of the used pad, preventing it from opening or releasing odors.
How might we help women feel more prepared?
The Grab-and-Go Kit helps users remember to carry the pads they need for the day. There are two types of kits: one designed for regular days, containing four regular-sized pads, and another for lighter days, including one regular-sized pad and three liners.
How might we help with the purchasing and arranging experience of the pads?
Instead of purchasing bulky packages of different-sized pads, the Bonny Monthly Package is designed for a single menstrual cycle. It includes 5 regular daily packs and 3 pre/post packs. Users can conveniently pull out a pack from the bottom, while a side lever indicates how many packs remain.
Working on Bonny has been a transformative experience, giving us the opportunity to delve into seldom-discussed issues and bring them to light. The process of capturing these unique voices and translating them from mere concepts to tangible products has been both enlightening and challenging. Through rapid prototyping and continual iterations, we have successfully transformed abstract ideas into concrete, physical forms. However, since this product is intended for private use, it requires further validation through additional user testing. As we move forward, we are looking forward to refining our approach based on user feedback, ensuring that our product meets the expectations and needs of those it serves.
