Petsmart

Product Design

I worked with buyers to design and produce countless in-store product and packaging designs for Petsmart. From researching and presenting product ideas to buyers, to sketching and developing them on the computer and producing them in China, I was able to be a part of the entire process from start to finish.

The Process

My team started by researching trends and presenting initial designs to buyers via presentations. After receiving product selections we were able to move forward with sampling the products. We then created specs containing measurements for the factory to use for sample production.

Next we received samples and made any necessary tweaks or updates. Sampling dog toys was particularly interesting because we liked to test how dogs would actually interact with the toys and how well they held up when played with. In some cases we had to update to a stronger rope, a firmer plush, etc. dependent on the toy.

We then presented the physical products to buyers. From there, the buyers made product selections and we began developing packaging solutions.

Throughout the product design process, I learned a lot about working with a team and being an efficient communicator. I also learned about the importance of timelines and time management. Each quarters’ products are presented and developed an entire year in advance to ensure they reach stores without issues or delay.