DGN2512 · Packaging design

Overview

Packaging design is a unit specifically for those who wish to explore the application of communication design processes within the realm of 3-dimensional packaging design. Packaging continues to be a prominent component of our visual landscape and this unit will require you to critically assess its environmental impact, materiality and purpose through well-considered and appropriate design solutions. Different sector needs will be considered. For example, the specific and heavily legislated needs for medication packaging may be analysed alongside the needs of a simple grocery item, and/or the particular requirements of the cosmetics industry, which will be explored in depth via a live collaborative codesign project (from concept to launch). You will be required to rationalise the environmental impact of project solutions, in terms of materiality, reusability and recyclability. You will also comprehend the value of packaging as both a necessity for some items (sterile medical and pharmaceutical products, for example) and a persuasive and portable brand vehicle for others (cosmetic products and foodstuffs like tea and coffee, for example). Consumer needs including usability and ergonomics will also be an important consideration in this unit. Both form and surface graphics will be explored in detail. In addition you will be required to comprehend and apply the legal and production requirements of packaging design outcomes.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

100% in-semester assessment

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Describe the role and purpose of packaging in contemporary consumer culture, including environmental, material, legal and commercial considerations;
2. Design and/or co-design packaging solutions that respond to environmental issues, consumer needs, usability and branding requirements;
3. Combine three-dimensional form, surface graphics, and legal and production requirements to create coherent and feasible packaging design outcomes;
4. Work collaboratively in a co-design context to understand and respond critically to the needs and expectations of a specific industry sector;
5. Demonstrate a commitment to responsible packaging design by making informed decisions about environmental impact, material choice, reusability and recyclability;
6. Reflect critically on your design processes and outcomes to identify areas for improvement and inform your future design practice.

Workload

12 hours per week including 3 contact hours plus 9 hours of independent study.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.