Packaging for the Medical Sector: A Systemic Design Perspective

Abstract

Packaging for medical products demands careful consideration due to the numerous implications and interactions that occur throughout its lifecycle. It must ensure product protection and integrity, enhance safety and usability, and comply with regulatory and environmental requirements. In managing this complexity, Systemic Design offers a valuable framework for research and development. However, its application remains limited among designers and decision-makers in the medical sector.
This study investigates the potential impact of integrating Systemic Design principles into medical packaging at university training level. Specifically, it aims (i) to explore the relevance and benefits of adopting the systemic approach in this field, and (ii) to assess the knowledge, misconceptions, and systemic approach adoption of postgraduate design students. To achieve this, a dedicated workshop was conducted in which participants were asked to analyze and map systems around specific medical packaging case studies.
Initial observations indicated that participants struggled to recognize the complexity involved in redesigning medical packaging, and often lacked comprehensive evaluation criteria despite their background in design. The workshop activities revealed a limited understanding of stakeholder networks and lifecycle phenomena, highlighting the need for a broader, systems-oriented perspective in the field.
Results show how Systemic Design approaches are not yet widely understood when applied in Packaging Design, so the introduction of dedicated tools and methods in educational settings can significantly enhance students’ ability to approach complex systems. Finally, a follow-up study could be conducted to determine whether the participants will internalize and adopt systemic approaches in their future design practice.