For.Form

Bringing design thinking and material innovation to detectives to redefine the process of packaging and processing forensic evidence

What:

User Research, System Design, UX Design

Who:

Imperial College + Royal College of Art

Impact:

Nominated for the Beazley Designs of the Year Awards 2020

Project year:

2020

Problem area

The current system for collecting, packaging and processing forensic evidence is antiquated and broken. This increases the chance of the evidence becoming contaminated or compromised. Many cases are only allowed to submit up to five pieces of evidence in court, so it is crucial that every item has the best chance to stand up to trial.

My role

I worked directly with detectives to conduct on site research in the police station, evidence lockers and the courtroom. Using insights from this research and advice from forensic scientists, I developed a suitable material for packaging evidence. I then used the material and a series of props to co-design the rest of the packaging system with the detectives.

Outcome

A new flexible and moldable material that is used to both protect, and then package the forensic evidence. A novel way to seal the packaging that is traceable and secure. An embedded RFID chip to allow the evidence to be automatically scanned and logged at points in the chain of custody, removing the need for manual input.

Behind the scenes

Interviews with users:

Onsite research and co-design with detectives, crime scene managers and forensic scientists helped to identify problem areas and inform a framework of requirements.

Working out parameters for success:

There is a narrow margin for error when it comes to handling forensic evidence. Above are a few of the constraints that needed to be met for a successful design.

Designing with detectives:

I took material samples and props to a ‘fake crime scene’ and workshopped with detectives to co-design the full system.

A nomination:

For.Form was nominated for the Beazley Designs of the Year award 2020.

Interviews with users:

Onsite research and co-design with detectives, crime scene managers and forensic scientists helped to identify problem areas and inform a framework of requirements.

Interviews with users:

Onsite research and co-design with detectives, crime scene managers and forensic scientists helped to identify problem areas and inform a framework of requirements.

Interviews with users:

Onsite research and co-design with detectives, crime scene managers and forensic scientists helped to identify problem areas and inform a framework of requirements.

Interviews with users:

Onsite research and co-design with detectives, crime scene managers and forensic scientists helped to identify problem areas and inform a framework of requirements.

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