Though it is not a isolated design, blister packaging for consumer products often results in poor user experience. Specifically this type of packaging is referred to as a clamshell and is a result of companies trying to deter theft for small high-value products. It is formed using hard plastic (either two pre-formed plastic sheets or one sheet folded over onto itself and fused at the edges) and designed to closely fit its contents. I never seem to have a pair of scissors or knife handy, and it always seems like one would be able to oped it either by popping the two peices apart or tearing the plastic, but this is never the case. Not only can you rarely accomplish opening the package, but it can be dangerous. Wikipedia states that "Wrap rage is sometimes the result" and 6,000 Americans are sent to the emergency room each year in the attempt to conquer these packages.
On a more humorous note, there is an entire market for products designed soley for the purpose of getting into other products packaged in this way.
Product packaging that is so difficult to open that it causes user frustration (and injury) ruins the first moment you spend with your new product. Be it a pair of scissors (hope you already own one pair...) or a new tech gadget, this experience doesn’t exactly leave the user with a good impression or make them want to run out and get another one. People appreciate things that offer immediate satisfaction, and having to strategically break into the toy you just purchased does not satisfy this desire. Thumbs down!
This is amazing... I never new why they used this types of packages. What about lower-priced items that still do this? Why do they see a need of protecting the package from a thief? I have definitely been a victim of the Warp rage and cut myself trying to tear a package apart!
ReplyDeleteAlthough it gets frustrating, it makes perfect sense why they do it. You normally arent carrying scissors with you when you go to the store, and they don't want their stuff stolen.. and who doesn't have scissors at home?
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