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On 24 March, our group began addressing issues faced by University of Malaya students, focusing specifically on the problem of folding clothes, as highlighted by our member Syahmi (in the picture above). In the first few weeks of the semester, we convened to identify a product that could effectively address this common issue among students. We scheduled physical meetings at Built Environment as our group members have the same class there, to delve deeper into our case study. Through our discussions, we concluded that students often lack time to fold their clothes due to assignments and other commitments. Consequently, we decided to develop a folding device named FoldMate, constructed primarily from recycled materials like used cardboard. This solution not only addresses the problem but also promotes sustainability.

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At this stage, we defined the problem statement and set clear goals for the FoldMate project: "How might we design an cloth-folding device that reduces the time and effort required while ensuring consistent and space-efficient results?" Our goals included reducing the time spent folding clothes by at least 50%, ensuring all folded items are neat and uniform, designing an intuitive interface requiring minimal user intervention, and minimizing physical strain by eliminating repetitive bending and folding motions. To achieve this, we gather all the information from each of us that we get until that moment, where we deeply understood the challenges faced by University of Malaya students. We analyzed this data to identify the core problem, students lack time to fold clothes due to their busy schedules.

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In the Ideate stage, we focused on generating a wide range of ideas and potential solutions for the FoldMate device. We began by sketching rough concepts to visualize different ideas and conducting a competitive analysis to research existing products related to cloth folding, identifying opportunities for innovation. Through discussions and brainstorming sessions, we aimed to develop solutions that truly meet the needs of University of Malaya students. Tasks were quickly allocated to each group member, who then brainstormed features based on the main problem statements identified earlier. Each member presented a possible design for the FoldMate device. Ultimately, we concluded that using recycled cardboard as the primary material for the FoldMate was the best idea due to its sustainability and practicality.

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Our objective in this stage was to develop and test prototypes of the most promising ideas for the FoldMate device. Each team member was assigned specific tasks to contribute to the complete prototype, and the process was mostly handcrafted. One evening, we gathered at the KK2 lobby to assemble our first FoldMate prototype. We began by creating initial models and conducting preliminary testing with a small group of users to gather feedback. This early prototype focused primarily on demonstrating the product's functionality rather than its appearance, which is why it looked rudimentary. The goal was to ensure the FoldMate's functionality could be effectively evaluated and refined based on user feedback.

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In the final stage of our Design Thinking process, we focused on conducting extensive testing of the refined FoldMate prototypes and gathering a feedback. Our activities included extended user testing, where we distributed the prototypes to a larger group of users for several weeks. We collected both quantitative and qualitative data through surveys and follow-up interviews, measuring key performance indicators such as time savings, user satisfaction, and folding consistency.

During this stage, we also received valuable feedback from Dr. Zuraini in our last meeting. Based on her insights and the user feedback, we identified several improvements to enhance the prototype before finalizing the product. These improvements included adding indicators or instructions to guide users on how to operate the device, incorporating handles for better usability, and decorating the prototype to enhance its aesthetic appeal. Additionally, we decided to add a University of Malaya logo and straps to increase the prototype's value and appeal. These refinements aimed to ensure that the FoldMate not only functioned effectively but also provided a positive user experience and represented our institution well.

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Reflecting on the entire process of developing the FoldMate product, I have gained significant insights and valuable lessons. This journey has taught me the importance of a structured approach to problem-solving, emphasizing empathy, collaboration, and iterative improvement. By engaging deeply with the user needs, particularly those of University of Malaya students, I learned how critical it is to maintain a user-centered perspective in design. The positive aspects of this project included enhanced teamwork, where each member contributed uniquely to the brainstorming, prototyping, and testing stages. Additionally, the feedback loop with users and mentors like Dr. Zuraini proved invaluable, highlighting the necessity of continuous refinement and responsiveness to feedback. This subject, Design Thinking, has profoundly impacted my approach to tackling complex problems, equipping me with practical skills to innovate and adapt creatively. Overall, it has reinforced the value of empathy, experimentation, and iterative learning in creating solutions that are both effective and meaningful.