PROJECT OVERVIEW
The Edge Desk was a capstone project for the Master of Product Development (MPD) program, completed by a team of four. The project focused on addressing the challenges of the remote work status that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic by creating a modular, space-saving desk for urban professionals. The Edge Desk is designed to enhance productivity in constrained living spaces through a flexible, user-personalized workspace.
The team faced challenges in designing a desk that optimized space efficiency while being easy to assemble and suitable for rental living. Ensuring the product was cost-effective, feasible, and compliant with furniture safety regulations added complexity. Additionally, validating the market demand and ensuring the product met the needs of urban professionals working in constrained spaces were key components of the development process.
SOLUTION
• Developed a modular, leaning desk design that maximized vertical space to accommodate remote workers in small living environments. The tool-free assembly and renter-friendly design made it particularly suitable for urban professionals.
• Collaborated on the creation of a cost-effective production process, considering quality control and efficient use of materials.
• Established a scalable go-to-market strategy as part of the capstone, emphasizing direct-to-consumer sales through e-commerce and social media marketing. This strategy focused on positioning the product as a solution for space-constrained urban workers.
Glamor shot of the Edge Desk with Logo Design
Illustration of Edge Desk personalization options for product shipped to customers
Exploded view of the final concept sketch
3D Glamor Shot design
IP design of rail system extrusion side view
Glamor shot of product concept
Rear view of backboard and rail design
RESULTS
• The Edge Desk concept was presented as part of the capstone project, demonstrating its potential to address the needs of remote workers in small urban spaces. The product concept received positive feedback from faculty and industry professionals during the presentation.
• Through comprehensive market research, the project validated a significant market opportunity for space-saving furniture targeted at urban professionals.
• Although the product was not commercially launched, the project provided a foundation for a scalable business model with a detailed roadmap for potential product extensions and future commercial success.
Key TAKEAWAYS
• The project underscored the importance of user-centered design in addressing real-world problems, particularly for remote workers in space-constrained environments.
• Cross-functional collaboration across design, engineering, manufacturing, and marketing led to the successful execution of the capstone project, showcasing the potential of the Edge Desk as a solution for the modular furniture market.
• The capstone experience reinforced the value of strategic planning and innovation management, highlighting the project’s potential for growth and scalability beyond its academic context.
Feel the excitement as our teammate, Lance demonstrates how to assemble and personalize the layout of The Edge Desk prototype.
MY ROLE
• Engaged the market research and validation efforts to define the target user and estimate the market size. Focused on understanding the needs of remote workers in urban environments with limited workspace, contributing to the product’s design and marketing direction.
• Oversaw design and engineering refinements to ensure the Edge Desk was feasible, functional, and safe, working closely with the team to address challenges and comply with furniture safety regulations.
• Collaborated with manufacturing partners to establish potential production processes for both the product and packaging, focusing on risk mitigation related to supply chain and quality.
• Developed the go-to-market strategy as part of the project plan, including a branded online store, digital marketing campaigns, and a distribution plan, outlining steps for future commercial release had the project proceeded beyond the capstone.
