Multifaceted Design Overhaul

For the 10 million people in the UK living with arthritis or reduced hand dexterity, everyday tasks can be a challenge. Keywing™ is an innovative product that makes it easier to grip and turn a key, restoring independence to its users. However, Keywing™ was composed of six parts, making its assembly time-consuming, complex, and costly, posing a significant barrier to efficiency and scalability.

Recognising the need for a streamlined manufacturing process without compromising functionality, JNDC undertook a complete redesign. Our approach was twofold: to enhance usability and simplify assembly. The new design maintained the original benefits with fewer components, significantly reducing time and costs. We solved the manufacturing issue, and customers loved the improved product. JNDC's support continued through tooling design and manufacturer selection, ensuring a smooth transition to the new model.

The updated Keywing™ has since gained traction, enjoying success in both physical retail spaces and online platforms, winning a Design Council UK Spark Award, a Good Design Award, and £65,000 of funding from the charity Versus Arthritis. This project exemplifies how thoughtful design can simultaneously address manufacturing efficiency and user needs, leading to enhanced market performance and customer satisfaction.