The challenge of this project was to reimagine the “business card experience” by assessing and evaluating the common elements of the exchange. To design a better experience for the individual receiving it, I thoughtfully considered the journey and lifespan of the business card. I asked, “How could I thoughtfully design an experience around a business card object that would result in a meaningful connection?” I used the design thinking tool from Ellen Lupton’s Graphic Design Thinking: Beyond Brainstorming to force a connection between mail and business cards. While the process of giving and receiving a business card is often unpleasant, sending letters in the mail is thoughtful and can be received like a gift. Merging a stale experience with a heartwarming exchange allowed my ideation process to take a more explorative approach. My top goal was to make the recipient feel cared about through the spark of a relationship. Using the physicality of the object, I hoped to turn a transactional experience into a relational connection point. Led by my value for authentic connection and simplicity, it was important for each piece to have intentional meaning and practicality while feeling true to what I imagined Scout Studios to be.
These designed elements included a branded notebook, square business cards, hand-embroidered canvas envelopes, and map pockets with a velum holder for business cards that included a handwritten note inside. The map elements play on the idea of a scout as an explorer.
