iFixit

iFixit, renowned among tinkerers, fixers, and makers for their high quality screwdrivers and product teardowns, was seeking to bring yet another way to streamline their users projects: an organizational mat specifically designed for sensitive electronic projects.

When iFixIt approached the studio, they had a clear definition of the consumer they were targeting and the problems they wanted to solve. They knew they wanted to reach those repair enthusiasts and traveling technicians in search of a magnetic project tray that offered sorting features for small, non-magnetic parts, while being a more sustainable option than competitors, with better value to boot.

The Studio dove in, creating sketches of different forms - changing placement of small parts bins at the edge of the mat, adding raised feet, finding solutions that ensure the mat center would stay lightweight. We streamlined the entire design, avoiding the bulky, boxy organizational systems used by competitors.

We also knew that the project mat and tray had to be cohesive within the iFixIt ecosystem. We led a graphics exploration, determining what information was most vital to users for organizing a project - grids, labels, a whiteboard surface, reminders about ESD and electronic safety.

The final solution leans into the look of a classic blueprint, which is fun for anyone working on a project while also helping to provide contrast with small parts that are frequently black or uncolored metal.