Utility, Affordability, and Safety
Sophia Gallardo, Whitnee Wall, Carlie Rueth, Nick Malliaras, Christy Suciu, Alhareth Alhisan
Problem
Workplace injuries for school employees:
- 30% Fall, slip or trip
- 27% Struck
- 24% Strain
- 5% Cut, puncture, or scrape
- 5% Exposure to
- 4% Striking against or stepping on
- 5% Other
Need
- Need for multiple tools (remover & stapler)
- Difficult to reach tops of bulletin boards
- Lengthy decorating process
Solution
- Extendable tool with motorized stapler
- Compartment to catch staples
- Compact
- No sharp edges
This product can help teachers frequently change bulletin boards. Changing boards supports learning outcomes and keep students feeling valued (Anderson, n.d.).
Customer Segment
- Teachers, Admin Personnel, & Daycare employees
- Since 2019, there are about 3.2 million public school teachers in the U.S. (National Center for Education Statistics, n.d.)
Strategy
- Unfair Advantage: Patents & affordable manufacturing
- Channels: Mass retailers & office supplies stores
- Cost Structure: COGS – $20, Retail price – $44.99
- Key Metrics: Safety & Affordability
Additional Information
References available upon request. For questions or comments about this research, contact Sophia Gallardo at sophiagallardo@u.boisestate.edu.