NeverLeft

The problem

After much research & interviews I found a problem in firearm safety that needed to be addressed. The problem was clear and the need for a solution was evident, but how to solve the problem proved to be very difficult.

The frustration

After over 20 prototypes, many interviews and feedback sessions along with testing…I had to face the hard fact that…I would have to change the form factor. The current form factor was easier to sell, people liked how it felt, looked and how convenient it was. It just felt good in the hands and the cost of production/packaging/ect was spot on but….the success rate of the product (regarding safety) was not 100%. That was a problem, because the product NEEDS to be 100% accurate and safe all the time otherwise…it should never see the light of day.

The learnings

How this project change my mind & changed how I viewed problems was this…If the product doesn’t truly solve the problem, or doesn’t fully solve the problem maybe it shouldn’t exist and this could actually be good for the user and the business if you think of downstream ramifications. Also, that a good feeling & looking form factor that does not perform should be replaced what maybe “less attractive” but solves the problem. After some brainstorming and mix-and-matching ideas, I came across a form factor that is appealing, convenient and 100% safe, trade off was an increase in cost of the product the testing I need to do with users will let me know if the price is still appealing to users especially if its attractive to them, solves the problem and is convenient.