FLARE is a concept developed to aid efficiency and effectiveness of Search and Rescue. It is a wearable technology device that encompasses GPS capabilities, backup offline locating capabilities, 2-way text communication via satellite, and other various features suited for outdoors. It is intended for both Search and Rescue as well as recreational outdoor enthusiasts, with same hardware, but different software.

Abstract: Within this insights report, I gather information (this includes primary and secondary research) pertinent to Lupus and Lupus patients, and I segment it into topics of either user, business, technology, or social (sustainable) related information. Within these topics, I analyze qualitative data and create charts to graphically depict my findings regarding Lupus symptoms and products pertinent to symptom relief. Through these graphs, I then find product opportunity gaps (POGs). For example, how to alleviate pain, provide energy, and reduce stress. After finding as many product opportunity gaps as possible, I then pick my top areas of interest. In the future, I will have brainstorming sessions dedicated to these POGs, and from these sessions, I can begin designing possible products to help monitor the systems, and alleviate the symptoms, of Lupus patients.

In response to the rapid rise of emerging markets, shorter product lifecycles, increasing global exchange and worldwide competition, companies are implementing `sustainable development' as a mechanism by which to maintain competitive global advantage. Sustainable product development approaches used in industry focus mainly on environmental issues, and to a certain extent on social and economic aspects. Unfortunately, companies have often ignored or are unsure of how to deal with the cultural dimensions of sustainable product development. Multi-nationals expanding their business across international boundaries are agents of cultural change and should be cognizant of the impact their products have on local markets. Companies need to develop a deeper understanding of local cultures in order to design and deliver products that are not only economically viable but also culturally appropriate. To demonstrate applicability of cultural appropriate design, this research undertakes a case study of food systems in India specifically focusing on the exchange of fresh fruits and vegetables (FFV). This study focuses on understanding the entire supply chain of FFV exchange, which includes consumer experiences, distribution practices and production processes. This study also compares different distribution channels and exchange practices and analyzes the pattern of authority between different players within the distribution network. The ethnographic methods for data collection included a photo-journal assignment, shop-along visits, semi-structured interviews, a participatory design activity and focus group studies. The study revealed that traditional retail formats like pushcart vendors, street retailers and city retail markets are generally preferred over modern retail stores. For consumers, shopping is a non-choreographed activity often resulting in exercising, socializing and accidental purchases. Informal communication, personal relationships and openness to bargaining were important aspects of the consumer-retailer relationship. This study presents cultural insights into interactions, artifacts and contexts relevant to FFV systems in India. It also presents key implications for the field of design, design research, cultural studies, consumer research and sustainability. The insights gained from this study will act as guidelines for designers, researchers and corporations interested in designing products and services that are culturally appropriate to contexts of production, distribution and consumption.