Design Thinking: Beach Riot

(Image courtesy of Beach Riot's Instagram)

In Graduate School, one of the buzzwords professors love to discuss is "Design Thinking." Design Thinking is an iterative process in which we seek to understand the user, challenge assumptions, and redefine problems to identify alternative strategies and solutions that might not be instantly apparent with our initial level of understanding (Dam and Siang). Design Thinking enables a company to understand consumer needs to serve their audience better. For this project, I contacted different companies to learn how the organizations apply Design Thinking into their market offerings. I had the opportunity to talk with Nicole Tinkess , founder of Beach Riot, to learn more about the mission and vision of the company .

(Image courtesy of Nicole H.'s Instagram)

1. What makes Beach Riot products different from other products on the market?

USA made! We produce 90% of our goods here in Orange County, CA! I also feel like our designs and fabrics are unique and stand out from our competitors.

(Image courtesy of Beach Riot's Instagram)

2. How does Beach Riot incorporate its mission and vision into all its product offerings?

Being the founder and creative director of the company really helps. When designing and creating products I always hold our mission and vision into each product and category! I am very involved in all aspects of the business so I think that helps keep the core values and mission of the brand consistent.

(Image courtesy of Beach Riot's Instagram)

3. How has the company adapted to current and future societal values?

I think it helps that as a brand, we've always been super aware of social issues and we are putting our efforts into causes that we are really passionate about. We are always discussing what's next and what's happening, so that we can make sure that we are adapting, but staying true to the brand and our values.

(Image courtesy of Beach Riot's Instagram)

4. What is the future of the company?

We are growing and it's so amazing to see! We just moved into a new office, and it's so fun to see my team get inspired by this new space. We have some amazing collections coming out and some collaborations that we're super excited about. I can't wait to see what this year has in store for us.

(Image courtesy of Beach Riot's Instagram)