How would you describe your design focus and the concept of 'Innovation by Observation' to a new client?
My design philosophy centers on observing everyday life to uncover hidden user needs and pain points. By identifying these often-overlooked challenges, I develop innovative product ideas that are not only creative but also strategically geared toward commercial success. This approach allows me to craft solutions that make a genuine difference in people's lives while aligning with viable business strategies.
What is one product design you would love to have featured first by WallMag, and what makes it special?
Angular Multiplug
Can you share a sketch or early concept that captures an ‘observation-to-idea’ moment in your process, and tell us what inspired it?
The inspiration behind this sketch stemmed from noticing how 2-pin plugs would often become loose and fall out due to gravity. By introducing a 40° angle at the bottom, I created a gravity lock that effectively solved the problem, turning a simple observation into a practical design solution.
What does your creative process look like for bringing an idea from observation to final product?
My process typically moves through several stages: I start by observing and empathizing to truly feel the user's challenge. Then, I develop the core idea, transform it into a prototype, and finally refine the product for launch. Each step is crucial in transforming an initial insight into a market-ready innovation.
What was your experience like during a prototype or testing moment from one of your projects, and how did it influence your final design?
Testing the prototype was a rewarding validation of my design approach—it worked well, confirming that the adjustments I made addressed the original problem. This moment reinforced the importance of hands-on testing and informed how I refined the final design for better user experience.
Could you show us a before-and-after comparison to illustrate a key improvement in one of your projects? What made the final version better?
The improved version of the product is much easier to use. By addressing usability, the final design feels intuitive and accessible, ultimately making the user’s day-to-day experience more convenient and hassle-free.
What's one high-impact design that you’re particularly known for, and why does it matter to you?
The Angular Multiplug is a design that holds a special place for me because it created an entirely new product category in the market. This innovation wasn't just a solution—it set a new standard and influenced how future products were developed in the industry.
Can you share a moment from one of your speaking engagements, and what was the main message you conveyed?
During my talks, such as my recent TEDx keynote, I focused on highlighting the incredible power of observation. I wanted the audience to appreciate how keen observation can reveal opportunities for groundbreaking design and meaningful solutions.
What does it mean to have your work displayed in a publication, exhibit, or museum-style setting? Could you share one such instance?
Having my work featured in Business World Magazine, in an article devoted to observation, was a proud moment. It acknowledged the significance of my design philosophy and helped share my approach with a wider audience.
What types of projects are you hoping to engage with more this year?
This year, I'm eager to work on more projects in consumer electronics, as well as faucets, handles, and locks. These areas present exciting challenges and opportunities to innovate, allowing me to apply my observation-driven methodology to new domains and create impactful, user-centric solutions.
Contact and Follow
- Email: cartoonist.paul@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.paulsandip.com/
