Conducted extensive research—including patent exploration and benchmarking analysis—to evaluate technical opportunities and market gaps across multiple dimensions

Identified unmet user needs through interviews and testing focused on portability, security, customization, and visual appeal

Broke the product into three focus areas—holding, hanging, and housing—to refine form and function individually before integrating into a cohesive solution

Built and tested 12+ physical mockups across iterative rounds, optimizing for usability, durability, and manufacturability

Developed a corner clamp insert with velcro backing that can adapt to existing art portfolios for secure, convenient transport

Explored downstream strategy through Design for Manufacturing considerations, detailed cost analysis, a comprehensive manufacturing and assembly plan, and future-facing business planning—including platforming strategy, a licensing vs. startup model comparison, and a branding case study