Strollers specifically designed for a circular economy : Why the future paradigm will pose new demands on products and how to fulfil them

Abstract: Today´s traditional linear production and consumption model fronted by cheap wear and tear products is problematic in terms of sustainability and has to make the transition to a more circular model. As evident from previous projects and pilots, simply taking the shortcut and solely changing the business model (often by leasing instead of selling the exact same products as before) is not sufficient enough in order to meet the demands that come as a consequence of the new business model. Due to this, the goal was to design a product-service system for strollers specifically designed for a circular economy paradigm, rather than today´s linear one.  The project follows the Vision in Product Design methodology that abled us to deconstruct today´s context and by that question why strollers (as well as the market for them) are the way they are today. The later part of the method is centered around creating a future context, taking a stance and formulating a desirable interaction between the future product and user as well as a resulting product-service system. Various methods and tools were used during the process, such as user interviews and observations, a circuit of culture, collection and clustering of context factors, a user segmentation, persona creation, journey mapping, a trend analysis, a stakeholder analysis, a statement definition, the creation of a fictional brand, a strategic brand positioning, service design methods such as a desktop walkthroughs, as well as ideation, concept creation and product design. The final result is a product-service system consisting mainly of a stroller, Rolle Tellus, as well as a surrounding service system backed up by the fictional brand Rolle. Rolle Tellus can in many ways be seen as a first attempt to "bike-ify" the stroller as a product. It is the first piece in a broader fleet of Rolle strollers specifically made for a circular paradigm, sourcing inspiration from the fields of bicycles. It is a more timeless, honest and optimized design that fulfills the requirements that this paradigm will pose. Compared to many traditional strollers (made for a linear paradigm), the product is a clear example of great material hygiene and improved durability. In addition to the things mentioned above, Rolle Tellus and the leasing service Rolle Adapt is together bringing value to the users with design solutions combining hardware and software. We would like to stress the fact that the conclusions in this report also should be seen as part of a more holistic framework (in synergy with the work of others) of how products in general could and should be designed for a circular economy paradigm.