Sometimes, only after one project fails one can find a great opportunity. The Rite In The Rain Monsoon Field Desk rose from the ashes of another project to become one of Rite In The Rain’s hit products. To be a success this weatherproof clipboard with zipper storage had to be a valuable and durable product for people who, literally, need to write in the rain.
The Monsoon Field Desk was born from a project to create products to do office work in the field or on the job site. The initial project was abandoned due to high costs. However, during development, the idea of a soft case made from welded TPU-coated fabric emerged. This concept addressed the need for a durable and weather-resistant clipboard. This new design had the added benefit of replacing an existing product due for a refresh. Extensive user research led to the identification of key product requirements around weight, durability, storage, and user experience. Metal clipboards were prone to heat, dents, and weight issues, while plastic clipboards lacked durability. To overcome these challenges, the team used TPU-coated fabrics with reinforced surfaces, providing an ideal writing surface. The welded construction provided a bend but didn’t break structures that could withstand harsh conditions. The design incorporated ample storage space for notebooks, charts, maps, and tablets in a protective water-resistant zippered case. After analyzing customer feedback on previous products, the team determined that users preferred quick access to pen storage locations at the top and on the elastic strap that held the paper down.
Another critical consideration was ensuring secure one-handed carrying of the clipboard. After exploring different options, a single strap down the middle proved to be the most functional solution, allowing for a secure grip while writing or using other equipment. Collaboration with our vendor was vital for producing the final product, enabling quick turnaround of high-quality samples for real-world testing. The design was refined to achieve optimal stiffness for the writing surface and the perfect zipper length. The final design featured a zippered case that opened like a book, providing easy access to the protected contents.
In collaboration with Rite In The Rain’s product developers, the designers examined trends and conducted market research for the product’s color, material, and finish (CMF) options. After visualizing different options using 3-D renderings, they settled on a dark, earthy green (our version of olive drab) as the primary panel color, appealing to both military and outdoor equipment markets. The design team chose black for the TPU fabric perimeter, and zipper areas to enhance the main panels’ visibility. Moreover, both colors help to conceal dirt and grime to maintain a clean appearance. The zipper pulls are long, bright yellow nylon cords that are easy to use even when wearing gloves and stand out for fast visibility. The high-quality weather-proof zipper added functionality and aesthetic appeal. To emphasize the product’s durability and superior quality the designers worked closely with the vendor to ensure the welded seams’ quality was watertight inside and out.
In conclusion, the Monsoon Field Desk resulted from a series of iterations and innovations aimed at meeting the unique needs of workers on job sites or out doing fieldwork. Its durable, weatherproof, and lightweight design, along with ample storage space, multiple pen storage locations, and a secure strap, make it the perfect tool for professionals who need to work in the harshest environmental conditions. Demand has been incredibly high since the product has gone to market.
Category:PersonalYear:2023Designers:Adam Jossem, Jet Pack Industries LLC., Seattle, Washington, USAManufacturer:Rite in the Rain, JL Darling LLC., Tacoma, Washington, USA
