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What is
BUILDABLES
Buildables is a range of new age S.T.E.M. products that teach children essential construction, analytical, and problem-solving skills through the joy of creating their own functioning 'Meaningful Machines' which they can use on a daily basis.
The focus of the Buildables range lies in enabling kids to build, learn and explore as they construct simple machines with step by step instructions, practical application of key science concepts, and lots of exciting challenges.
The idea behind ‘Meaningful Machines’ is that these aren't just toys that kids play with one day and keeps aside for the rest of their life. These are simple machines that kids can build and explore with on a daily basis.
DESIGN PROCESS
# 1
Research
# 2
Prototyping
# 4
Delivery
# 3
Testing
# 1
RESEARCH
We started with the fact that 'STEM Toys' is a very highly rated search term in the Amazon Database, both Indian and American. Taking this data as backbone to create a new platform level product, our team made various connections with parents and teachers to understand where and how to introduce STEM toys to children.
The most common insight we got from parents was that the existing STEM toys in the market have a very short shelf life. Children get bored easily due to the flat and colourless look of the product, and the low engagement level. This was the origin of 'Meaningful Machines'. We procured high quality plywood that we dye painted before cutting to make the product more attractive.
The product line was decided based on a thorough research both on the Amazon database and with school teachers. This gave our team a pool of concepts and ideas that we could introduce to the kids.
# 2
PROTOTYPING
Various iterations were made of the products, and tested in house for smoothness of mechanism and ease of assembly. These iterations kept evolving over time until we reached a design that we felt was optimum for testing with children.
Manuals and activity books were made for the same purpose. These were edited by both school teachers and child psychologists to ensure that the content was engaging and easily understandable for the target age group.
# 3
TESTING
Extensive sessions were held with children aged 8-12, to observe their understanding and interaction with the products. The insights we gained were crucial for us to modify parts of our products and manuals for the best experience. In a span of 2 weeks, we had incorporated all the relevant changes, and started with our final stage of manufacturing.
# 4
DELIVERY
1
Parts to build the machine
These STEM toys are assembled using international quality Birch Plywood, cut to precision. The designs are intuitive, and the finish filled with colourful vibrance. Individual parts of each product are designed to follow a family of standards, such that they can be fused together with the other 'Meaningful Machines' and create something entirely new.
Other parts include brass screws, springs, powerful lenses, foam details, and a lot more. These together make these machines completely non-adhesive and easily deconstructable.
2
Build Manual
Learn & Explore Manual
The Build manual is a step-by-step guide that helps the kid build the machine. Checkpoints are included so the kid can correct any errors made while building.
The Learn & Explore manual engages the kid with interesting activities involving the machines. This helps stimulate creative thinking while learning key science applications all through the power of play.
3
Step-by-Step
Instructional Video
A detailed animation video was made by the team to explain the construction of the machines. These videos give the kid a comprehensive understanding about the parts of the machine and the joineries used.
A troubleshoot is also provided to correct any mistakes done by the child. Scan and watch!
3D SPY GLASSES
3D Spy Glasses contains 100+ elements comprising of wooden building pieces, high-density foam, colored lenses, and other relevant parts.
Once built, you can witness the world with a colorful lens, see how the world changes, and also indulge yourself in 3d images, videos, and secret messages through exciting activities.
CONCLUSION
Working at Skillmatics involves more than just understanding the psyche of a child; A lot of our research goes into parental behaviour as well.
We have a diverse team and a strong connect that helps us bounce ideas rather efficiently. The office culture is such a delight, it reflects on the work we do and the success we have achieved.