The problem
The NHS has very low rates of product returns , with 4/5 (78%) aids not being returned. This costs the NHS billions of pounds every year, as the NHS is already underfunded and this means that it cannot afford to be loosing this extra cost. This also has huge negative impacts on the environment. I will be working towards to creation of an interface that can help improve the rates of these returns, whether this is a system, product, communication tool or other.
"How might I improve NHS systems to ensure a circular system for NHS products?"
My solution
My solution was to incorporate a comprehensive returns feature into the NHS app, using their branding to create a cohesive experience across the platform. Ease of returns has been prioritized by offering multiple return methods suitable for different patients and their needs and optimizing the use of mobile phone technology to facilitate easy to understand, hassle free return and repairs systems for the NHS in order to reduce the waste and monetary losses the NHS experiences yearly. I also redesigned the products that are least frequently returned so that these were easier to repair and return for reuse.
I analysed the NHS brand guidelines in order to come up with some different poster ideas to advertise the new returns system and to work as an access point for users.
I used CAD and codesign strategies to re-design some of these products with disassembly and repair in mind. Ensuring that all components can come apart and be replaced easily, that materials are not mixed and that where possible parts can be recycled or easily repaired.
I copied navigation patterns from the NHS app that already exists in order to propose this new subpage that can be integrated into the app in order to facilitate returns.
I considered different ways in which I would be able prompt the returns cycle to come into action, looking into using "nudge theory" to enforce this action. using visual cues such as stickers or light or auditory signals may be able to achieve this. In the final solution, stickers were used as this would mean that the NHS could add these to existing products in order to improve sustainability. They can also then update them as needed, clean products easily and not face additional costs of integrating robotics into the products.
Key Skills evidenced
Adobe Photoshop - Adobe Indesign - Adobe Premiere Pro - Understanding of brand identity - Campaigns work - Product re design - Services and system design - Fusion 360.
*Not affiliated with the NHS, proposed system for the Royal Cornwall hospital. Staff at the Hospital supported the development with this project and provided access to NHS logos and branding guidelines for the development of this concept.