Opportunity: The goal of this project was to repackage an existing product to increse functionality and aesthetic appeal. I chose to redesign packaging for Betta fish. During my research I discovered that the industry standard plastic cups Bettas come in tend to crack and lose water, and they are mistakenly used as permanant fishbowls by some pet owners. When I discovered that pet store Betta fish often come from overseas and are shipped in very small plastic bags, I knew that my packaging would have to treat the fish in a more humane manner.
Solution: Since my product is a living animal, not an inanimate object, I decided to rebrand their packaging in a way that brings dignity to Betta fish. I decided to create a starter kit for new pet owners, complete with a care guide, sample packs of food, water softener and tank decorations. Because Bettas make great first pets for children, I designed a "birth certificate" to be included in the kit so that kids can make a more personal connection with their fish. The fictional company I created as the supplier has local hatcheries which solves the problem of inhumane treatment of the animals during shipping.
The name for Bettas is derived from ikan bettah, Malay for "fighting fish." I called my company I Can Betta as a reference to their original name and to suggest their accessability as a first-time pet.
