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ESTHER KRUPP
01- A
FILM SERIES +
EVENT GRAPHICS
In partnership with Katra Film Series, brand identity for a new film series was developed.
01- A
FILM SERIES +
EVENT GRAPHICS
In partnership with Katra Film Series, brand identity for a new film series was developed.
01- A
FILM SERIES +
EVENT GRAPHICS
In partnership with Katra Film Series, brand identity for a new film series was developed.
WITNESS
DESIGN SYSTEM - DIGITAL + PRODUCT
08 - A
PERSONAL SAFETY DEVICE
In partnership with The Ohio State University as a Bachelor of Science senior thesis, violent crime was researched through the methodology of Design Research. Potential situations in various stages of violent attack were examined, and the time shortly after an attack was identified as an under- addressed issue. Design solutions were developed to aid the survivor(s) and authorities. Tools for building a case against criminals were created to reduce the occurence of repeat person-to-person crime offenders.
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THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY DESIGN DEPARTMENT
The Industrial Design program at The Ohio State University Department of Design integrates creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving to prepare students for designing products, services, and systems that improve everyday life. Grounded in user-centered and sustainable design principles, the curriculum emphasizes research, ideation, and prototyping, fostering a balance of conceptual and technical skills. Students engage in interdisciplinary collaborations and real-world projects, exploring diverse applications such as consumer products, medical devices, and emerging technologies. With state-of-the-art facilities and mentorship, the program equips graduates to lead shape the future of design.
THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
CAMPUS PUBLIC
SAFETY
The Ohio State University’s Campus Public Safety division is dedicated to fostering a secure and welcoming environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Through a comprehensive approach to safety, the department offers 24/7 emergency response, crime prevention education, and community engagement programs. Key services include the University Police, the Buckeye Alert System for timely notifications, and safety resources such as self-defense training and Safe Ride services. Committed to collaboration and preparedness, Campus Public Safety empowers the Buckeye community to prioritize well-being, ensuring that everyone can thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
THE CITY OF
COLUMBUS OHIO
POLICE
DEPARTMENT
The Columbus Division of Police serves as the primary law enforcement agency for Ohio's capital city, dedicated to maintaining public safety and fostering trust within the community. With a commitment to professionalism, accountability, and collaboration, the department provides a range of services, including crime prevention, emergency response, and community policing initiatives. Officers work to address diverse public safety needs while building strong relationships through outreach and engagement. Guided by its mission to protect life and property, the Columbus Police Department ensures a safe, inclusive, and thriving environment.
08- B
DESIGN RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Through the structured approach of Design Research Methodology, challenges and opportunities in human-centered design are systematically explored and addressed. Rooted in principles of empathy and collaboration, this methodology encompasses qualitative and quantitative research techniques to understand user behaviors, needs, and contexts. Insights are synthesized to inform ideation and prototyping, with iterative testing ensuring alignment with user goals. Applied across disciplines, Design Research empowers the creation of innovative solutions that enhance usability, accessibility, and impact, fostering meaningful connections between people and systems.
DESIGN RESEARCH SYSTEMS-THINKING
Design Research infused with Systems Thinking explores complex problems by examining the interconnected relationships between people, processes, and environments. This holistic approach identifies patterns and underlying structures that influence user behaviors and societal challenges. Through iterative research and visualization techniques, such as journey mapping and causal loops, designers uncover insights that drive innovative and sustainable solutions. By focusing on the larger ecosystem, Systems Thinking fosters resilience and adaptability to address immediate needs while anticipating future impacts.
STAKEHOLDER
CO-CREATION
Stakeholder Co-Creation is a collaborative design approach that actively involves diverse stakeholders—such as users, clients, and community members—in the creative process. By integrating their insights, experiences, and expertise, this method ensures solutions are both relevant and inclusive. Through workshops, brainstorming sessions, and iterative prototyping, co-creation fosters shared ownership and aligns outcomes with stakeholder needs. The process not only enhances innovation and usability but also builds trust and strengthens relationships, resulting in more impactful and sustainable solutions.
EXPAND THE LIMITS OF DESIGN
To expand the limits of design is to challenge traditional boundaries and embrace new possibilities across disciplines, technologies, and cultural contexts. This approach pushes beyond conventional aesthetics and functionality, exploring how design can address complex global challenges, influence behavior, and shape the future. By integrating emerging technologies, diverse perspectives, and sustainable practices, designers redefine the role of creativity in solving problems. Expanding the limits of design unlocks transformative potential, inspiring innovation that is inclusive, impactful, and forward-thinking.
08 - C
THREAT OF VIOLENT CRIME
In partnership with crime prevention agencies, violent crime was analyzed through the methodology of Design Research, focusing on the patterns and behaviors of repeat offenders. Research revealed that 62% of violent crimes are committed by individuals with prior violent convictions, with a median recidivism time of 18 months. Key factors contributing to recidivism were examined, alongside situational contexts of urban crime, to identify opportunities for early intervention and prevention. Insights from this research aim to inform strategies that address the root causes of repeat offenses and enhance public safety.
STATISTICS FROM THE LAST DECADES
08 - D
ROBBERY & ASSAULT
- EMOTIONAL JOURNEY OF THE VICTIM:
SURVEYS
Through a comprehensive survey of individuals who could potentially be victims of robbery and assault, the emotional responses to such traumatic events were examined. The survey aimed to gather insights into how individuals might react psychologically, from initial feelings of fear and vulnerability to longer-term emotional consequences such as anxiety, distrust, and trauma. Key findings identified critical points in the emotional journey, including concerns about safety, interactions with law enforcement, and the availability of support systems. The insights gained aim to inform the creation of resources and strategies that can better prepare individuals for emotional recovery and improve overall response efforts following incidents of robbery and assault.
08 - E
ROBBERY & ASSAULT
- EMOTIONAL JOURNEY OF THE VICTIM:
INTERVIEWS
Through in-depth interviews with victims of robbery and assault, the emotional journey following these traumatic events was examined. The interviews revealed key psychological impacts experienced by victims, from initial shock and fear to long-term effects like anxiety, distrust, and post-traumatic stress. Insights from these conversations highlighted critical moments in the victim's experience, such as interactions with law enforcement, medical professionals, and legal systems. These findings informed the development of design solutions aimed at improving victim support, providing tools for emotional recovery, and strengthening response systems.
INTERVIEWS:
PROBLEM AREAS
08 - F
LAYERS OF
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
The layers of contributing factors in public safety and criminal justice are complex and multifaceted, involving a range of stakeholders. Safety services, public safety, and justice systems play pivotal roles in preventing and responding to crime. Within this framework, police and healthcare providers are essential for immediate intervention and support, while bystanders contribute to the broader societal response. Systems and services across sectors—such as law enforcement, healthcare, and social services—must work together to address the root causes of crime and provide comprehensive support to victims. Additionally, the influence of outside individuals, such as community leaders, policymakers, and the general public, further shapes the effectiveness of safety and justice efforts. Each layer interacts to create a network of support and response that affects the outcomes of crime prevention, victim assistance, and societal well-being.
SYSTEMS + SERVICES
OUTSIDE INDIVIDUALS
BEFORE ATTACK
DURING ATTACK
AFTER ATTACK
08 - G
FIRST RESPONDING OFFICERS’ PRIORITIES
Research into the priorities of first- responding officers reveals key opportunities for design solutions that could enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their actions. A primary concern is ensuring timely medical assistance for victims, which could be supported through innovative tools for rapid medical assessment and communication with healthcare providers. Arresting perpetrators and securing the crime scene could benefit from enhanced technologies for suspect identification and automated scene management tools, reducing human error. Design solutions can also improve the processes of removing unauthorized individuals, setting up tape barricades, and collecting critical scene data by integrating smart systems for perimeter control and real-time note-taking. Additionally, streamlining witness interviews with mobile platforms that capture testimony and assist in evidence documentation could improve investigation outcomes. These design opportunities aim to support first responders in their complex, high-pressure roles, improving both the speed and accuracy of their interventions.
OFFICER(S) PRIORITIES
08 - H
WITNESS TESTIMONY RESEARCH
Witness testimony research focuses on understanding the reliability, accuracy, and impact of eyewitness accounts in criminal investigations. Through a combination of surveys, interviews, and observational studies, researchers explore how witnesses recall details of an event, including factors that influence memory, perception, and communication. Key areas of investigation include the psychological effects of trauma on witness statements, the role of cognitive biases, and the effectiveness of different methods for gathering testimony, such as interviews, written statements, or video recordings. This research also examines the influence of external factors like media coverage or police procedures on witness accounts. Insights gained from witness testimony research are used to refine investigation protocols, improve witness support systems, and enhance the overall reliability of testimonies in legal proceedings.
08 - I
WITNESS TESTIMONY RESEARCH: COGNITIVE FUNCTION DURING TIMES OF STRESS
Witness testimony research focusing on cognitive function during times of stress investigates how high-stress situations, such as witnessing a crime, affect memory, perception, and the accuracy of recall. This research explores the psychological impact of stress on cognitive processes, including how adrenaline, fear, and trauma can distort a witness's ability to accurately perceive and remember key details of an event. By analyzing factors such as the timing of testimony, emotional state, and environmental stressors, the research seeks to understand how stress influences a witness’s recollection of events, particularly under pressure during interviews or legal proceedings. The findings aim to inform improved methods for interviewing witnesses, minimizing stressors, and adjusting investigative techniques to enhance the accuracy and reliability of witness testimony.
08 - J
PRODUCT RESEARCH:
PERSONAL SAFETY PRODUCTS AND WEAPONS
Product research in the context of personal safety products and weapons focuses on understanding the effectiveness, usability, and consumer perceptions of tools designed to protect individuals from harm. This phase of research pauses to redirect focus on evaluating a variety of products, such as pepper spray, stun guns, personal alarms, and wearable safety devices, as well as more traditional self-defense weapons like knives or firearms. The study examines factors such as ease of use, accessibility, psychological comfort, and legal considerations. In addition, the research delves into consumer behavior, identifying key motivations for choosing specific products, as well as barriers to adoption, such as fear of misuse or lack of training. Insights from this research inform the design and improvement of personal safety products, ensuring they meet the needs of users while balancing practicality, effectiveness, and safety.
PRODUCT RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
Witness_ProductSlides_SOS-03
Witness_ProductSlides_Whistle-01
Witness_ProductSlides_Bottle-07
Witness_ProductSlides_SOS-03
1/7
PRODUCT RESEARCH (DETAILED)
08 - K
IDEATION PHASE - SOLUTIONS BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE CRIME
In this ideation phase, potential solutions were explored across three critical stages of the crime experience: before, during, and after the crime. Initially, the focus was on addressing solutions for all three levels— individual, outside individuals, and systems and services — by identifying strategies that could prevent crime, support victims during the event, and provide assistance after the crime. However, the focus narrowed to the "individual" level after the crime and "systems and services" after the crime, recognizing the critical need for tailored solutions during these stages. At the "individual" level, the ideation centered on developing tools to support emotional recovery, enhance personal safety post-incident, and facilitate communication with law enforcement or healthcare providers. At the "systems and services" level, solutions aimed at improving the coordination between emergency response services, legal systems, healthcare providers, and support networks were prioritized. This phase sought to identify innovative ways to enhance victim support, streamline response times, and create an integrated system that helps individuals regain stability and seek justice after a traumatic event — focusing on crime.
NARROWING THE FOCUS
08 - L
IDEATION PHASE:
KEY STAKEHOLDERS AND GOALS
In this ideation phase, the focus shifted to identifying three key stakeholders —victims, police, and the justice system — to ensure that the solution addresses their specific needs in the aftermath of a crime. The goals for the product were defined to guide the design: 1) The solution is not a weapon, emphasizing a non-violent, non-threatening approach to personal safety; 2) The purpose is to provide another means of positive identification, offering victims a reliable method to identify perpetrators, even under stress; and 3) The tool will help build a case, generating evidence to strengthen law enforcement investigations and support the justice system in prosecution. By narrowing the focus to these three goals, this phase sought to create a balanced solution that addresses victim recovery, law enforcement needs, and the integrity of the legal process.
GOALS OF THE PRODUCT
08 - M
IDEATION PHASE: POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS, MECHANISMS, AND TECHNOLOGIES
In this ideation phase, potential solutions were explored through the examination of “possible mechanisms” and “possible technologies” that could support safety and identification after a crime. Among the possible mechanisms considered were: the use of black light to reveal hidden identifiers or markings on victims or suspects, controlled explosives for non-lethal deterrence or to mark areas of interest, and spraying mechanisms to discreetly mark a perpetrator with identifiable substances. The corresponding possible technologies explored included dyes, which could be used for marking perpetrators or victims in a way that would make them identifiable even after an incident; infrared spray, which could leave a visible trace on suspects only under specific conditions, ensuring discreet and non-invasive identification; and microchips, which could be embedded in personal safety devices or directly on individuals to provide traceability. This phase focused on combining these mechanisms and technologies in innovative ways, ensuring that the final solution balances effectiveness, safety, and ease of use for victims, law enforcement, and the justice system.
SELECTED OPTIONS
08 - N
FINAL DIRECTION - SPRAYING AND INFRARED SPRAY TECHNOLOGY
In the final direction of the project, the focus shifted to utilizing spraying and infrared spray technologies as key components for victim safety and identification. Spraying mechanisms were designed to discreetly mark perpetrators during or after an incident, allowing for clear identification without posing a direct threat or harm. Infrared spray was incorporated as a non-visible marking solution that only reveals its trace under specific infrared light conditions, ensuring that the mark remains discreet and undetectable to the perpetrator while being identifiable by law enforcement or other responders. This approach offers a non-invasive, effective means of providing positive identification, assisting with the investigation, and enhancing the likelihood of apprehending suspects, all while ensuring victim safety and legal integrity. The integration of these technologies supports a seamless connection between the victim, law enforcement, and the justice system in addressing and responding to violent crime.
USER SCENARIO
08 - O
FINAL DIRECTION: INFRARED & VISIBLE SPRAY IDENTIFICATION
The final solution combines infrared and visible spray technologies to discreetly mark perpetrators during or after an incident. The device, easily carried by the user, releases a visible spray to mark the perpetrator and an infrared spray that can only be seen under specific lighting. This dual marking system allows law enforcement to identify offenders without alerting them, while also providing traceability for investigations. The product is designed to support victim safety and enhance evidence collection, with features like GPS tracking and time-stamping for precise documentation.
08 - P
WEBSITE + APP:
DEVICE REGISTRATION
The website and app provide a simple, secure platform for users to register their personal safety devices. After creating an account, users can easily link their device by entering a unique ID or scanning a QR code. Registration ensures that the device is activated and linked to the user’s profile, allowing for quick access to device information and updates. This process also enables the user to receive notifications and track their device status, offering peace of mind with easy registration and management.
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08 - Q
STEP-BY-STEP PROTECTION
Witness ensures users can easily protect themselves with a personal safety device, while connecting them to local law enforcement. The process begins with registering the device on the website or app, where users input their device's unique serial number and link it to their profile. During registration, the device’s serial number is paired with the user’s zip code, connecting the product directly to the nearest police precinct. Each device’s chemical compound is also linked to its specific serial number, allowing law enforcement to identify the spray and its origin. In an emergency, users can discreetly activate the device, marking perpetrators with visible and infrared spray. The app tracks the incident in real time, providing local police with precise details for a quicker response. This streamlined process ensures a personalized and effective approach to safety, from device registration to immediate connection with law enforcement.
08 - R
A/B TESTING & PROFESSIONAL REVIEW
A/B testing and professional review were key components in refining the personal safety device, website, and app. The A/B testing phase focused on comparing different versions of features, such as device activation methods, user registration flows, and notification settings. This allowed for the collection of real-time user feedback to determine which options provided the most effective and seamless experience. In parallel, professional review played an essential role in ensuring the product’s functionality and reliability. Four police officers were interviewed throughout the process to gain insights into how the device could best integrate with law enforcement procedures. Their input helped fine-tune the device’s ability to assist in real-time emergency response, optimize communication with authorities, and ensure seamless data sharing with local police stations. The combination of A/B testing and expert feedback from law enforcement professionals allowed for continuous improvements, resulting in a well-rounded, user-centered product that effectively supports both individuals and authorities during critical situations.
We as police officers over the years have often said,
“I wish we had something we could just spray on criminals
that could make them glow in the dark so we’d be able to
find them and they wouldn’t be able to hide”. This product
in a way does that for us while we look for the perpetrator.
I would encourage the use of a product like this for people
walking alone at night in urban areas.”
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