Medical Device Packaging & Symbols

The rise of mobile devices has changed more than just how people browse the Internet. It’s changed branding, logo design, and brought about an increase in the use of icons in place of text. With smaller screens, space is at a premium. Users rely on web conventions, like the hamburger menu, to know how to navigate in this emerging space. Likewise, as the need for both apps and social channel icons increase, there’s been a shift toward more icon-like logos. The redesign of Netflix’s logo is one example. But when it comes to medical device packaging, is relying on symbols appropriate?

According to the recent FDA ruling, it is.

What This Means for Medical Device Packaging

As laid out in their 80-page ruling, medical device packaging can now use stand-alone symbols in labels, without explanatory text. Going into effect in September of this year, the ruling states that any symbols used must be “standardized.” This means that it must have undergone approval from a national (or international, if the product is sold across borders) standards development organization. What makes this notable is that the FDA is specifically saying that they don’t personally need to approve the symbols.

This is good news for medical device packaging manufactures, like Minnesota-based Sunrise, because it’s more convenient and symbols can be approved more quickly. Medical device packaging is notorious for many strict guidelines, so anything that can help the process is a win. Additionally, the use of symbols reduces the need to design and redesign packaging (according to Lexology). In fact, it’s estimated that medical device manufacturers will see benefits in the range of $6 to $20 million dollars over the next 20 years.

International Implications

It also means that medical device packaging doesn’t need to include multiple iterations in different languages for explanatory text. Symbols have long been in use in foreign markets. This ruling helps build consistency or “harmony” the U.S. device labeling requirements for symbols with international regulatory requirements. Law experts from Hyman, Phelpsde and McNamara commented in a post on FDA Law Blog:

Permitting use of standalone symbols is an important step toward global harmonization of device labeling. We commend the FDA for finalizing this important rule.

What’s Next

With the ruling coming into effect in September 2016, there are a few things medical device packaging and manufacturers can do. Symbols need to be validated by a standards development prior to use, so consultation is one step. To ensure that the user base understands the symbols, validation studies will help ensure that the symbol is intuitive and the meaning is clear. This is recommended, as the FDA may still monitor post-market surveillance data if consumers can’t understand the symbol or if it’s deemed misleading. Glossaries (including online) are also required with the use of symbols; development can begin as soon as an organization is ready.

Using symbols in medical device packaging benefits not only the manufacturer but also the consumer…as long as the symbols are well-designed. It’s much easier to glance at a product and process its function than it is to read lengthy instructions. It will be interesting to see how symbols figure into the future of medical device packaging.

Cosmetic Box Review: Dior Backstage Pros Solution Set

Cosmetic box sets are usually a way to get a little more bang for your buck. Sometimes there might be exclusive shades or add-ins, or a make-up bag, or some other kind of hook for consumers. One brand that bucks this trend, especially when it comes to cosmetics, is Dior. It’s rare to see their products discounted in any way, and buying a set (like the Backstage Pros Gift Set) doesn’t save much more money than buying each product individually.

I don’t mind this, to be honest. I would rather buy shades and products that work for my skin without feeling pressured to buy a set of which I would only use half of the products. However, I am a sucker for great packaging, and the Dior Backstage Pros Solution cosmetic box is gorgeous. It’s classy and understated, and clearly high-end. Two piece setup boxes have a rigidity and sturdiness that elevates them from something that goes out with the recycling to something in which you store keepsakes. And that’s true even if it isn’t emblazoned with ‘Dior.’

But back to the products.

Included in This Cosmetic Box

(and with translation below):

Diorshow Maximizer
“Mascara serum base, lash amplifying effect”
Diorshow Brow Styler in 001 Universal Brown
“Ultra fine precision brow pencil”
Dior Addict Lip Maximizer in 001 Pink
“Collagen active lip-gloss”
Dior Addict Lip Glow in 001 Pink
“Color awakening lip balm”
Nail Glow
“Instant French manicure/brightening effect”

Full disclosure: I wouldn’t have bought the set if it didn’t work with my skin tones, but luckily, 001 Pink is one of faves. It’s subtle and slightly plumping without being overwhelming, and it works on a variety of skin tones.

Same goes for the 001 brow styler, which gives a natural brow look. Unlike cheaper pencils, which give off too much powder or waxiness. Some online reviews have criticized the amount received for the price. When it comes to make-up, I’m a firm believer that quality is more important than quantity. However, I will admit to not being 100% sold on the Maximizer mascara. My eyelashes are very fine, and this tends to add more gunk than desired volume to them. It’s entirely possible I need application lessons, but this is the only product in the cosmetic box that I wouldn’t purchase on its own.

But back to a high note: Dior’s nail glow is worth every penny for ladies whose nails tend to chip otherwise. Reviews have noted the strong acetone scent, but c’mon…it’s nail polish! The shade works for my nails, leaving the nail tips looking whiter and rest slightly pink, as promised with the instant French manicure advertising. I know, I know, I didn’t believe it either, but try it out.

Cosmetic Box…Not by Sunrise (but just you wait)

This cosmetic box isn’t a product by Sunrise, but we do a pretty bang-up job with custom setup boxes. We’ll have some exciting news regarding this particular style in the next few months, too…so hold onto your seats in anticipation.

Contact a sales rep for more information!

What’s in a Printing Technique?

While it's true that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, the adage doesn't quite extend to product packaging. Packaging makes a first impression and a lasting one at that. It's what might draw someone to your product, and draw them back again. Choosing the right printing technique plays a key part in making an impression (pun slightly intended).

At Sunrise Packaging, the printing techniques which you can use include:

Printing techniques not only enhance design, but lend a tactile quality to packaging. Who can see an embossed design and not run their fingers over it? By appealing to multiple senses, it enhances the user's experience with your product before they've even opened it up.

Overprint varnish is the most cost efficient type of print coating. It provides a mild shine and some protection.
Aqueous contains protective sealants yet is environmentally-friendly as it is water-based. It's fairly glossy, per the example, and won't yellow over time.
Laminates has two options: film and liquid based. They're very effective in protecting from water and provide wipe-able surfaces.
UV Coating is liquid-based and applied/cured by UV lamps. Its main advantages include the highest gloss out of these options, better clarity and higher abrasion/rub resistance.

Medical Packaging For Boomers

Nearly 27% of the population of the United States was born between 1946 and 1964. Termed the Baby Boomers, this generation has stampeded its way through the decades and are now arriving at retirement age. While aging typically indicates health decline, this generation is bucking that trend (or segments of them are). They're eating better, exercising more, taking preventative measures designed to help them not only live longer, but have a higher quality of life as well. Their expectations are higher than previous generations; baby boomers also tend to have more money and are generally wealthier. They want the best--and they can probably pay for it--in their products, and that includes medical packaging.

For the product above, Sunpack created a box with light magnetic closure. This ensures that it won't open accidentally but is easy enough to slip open when needed.

The design of the medical packaging is important as well when it comes to the user's ability to remove it from the package. In the aspirin example from above, it's easy to shake out too many and lose some of the medication. It's not a huge factor with something relatively low-cost, like aspirin, but becomes exponentially more important with the medicine itself. Being able to package an actual device, such as the Axionics device in the picture, securely is step one. Step two is creating a tray which can not only securely hold the device, but allows for semi-easy removal. The thumb holes around each part of the device help ensure a firm grasp prior to lifting.

Vision is another consideration for medical packaging designed for baby boomers. Naturally, as we age, our vision tends to decrease. Medical packaging needs to be clear and concise in design as well as content. Devices need to be easily identifiable, but that doesn't mean devoid of creativity. For Axionics, you can see the design is deceptively simple, elegant, and with simple fonts to aid comprehension. While white is the dominant color within the design, choosing a bright, single accent color reduces visual clutter.

When it comes to baby boomers and medical packaging, HealthcarePackaging.com said it best:

This consumer segment is looking for brands that will help them take care of themselves and better their lives, without constantly reminding them that they aren’t actually as young as they think they are.

Packaging is great way to connect with an audience. It not only entices people to try it, but if it offers a pleasurable experience, it guarantees referrals and repeat business. Sunpack can help design products that meet this need for your products.

Nifty Netbox PopUp Palettes

In honor the recent release (and soon-to-be sold out) Urban Decay Through the Looking Glass eye shadow palette, I decided to revisit the original Alice in Wonderland palette (though note that these are not Sunrise products). What I love about these palettes is, first and foremost, the eye shadow selection. Urban Decay is super pigmented without feeling heavy or weighty, making it easy to vary the intensity. Secondly, the packaging for these palettes is always fun and interesting. The magnetic closure, or netbox, as Sunrise calls them, adds an interesting element. It helps ensure that what lies beneath that top flap stays secure and accessible for days to come. The drawer feature is one of my favorite features. It’s great to pull it out, see all the colors at once, and formulate your blending plan.

Courtesy of Urban Decay

Alice in Wonderland vs. Through the Looking Glass Netbox

The obvious precursor to Through the Looking Glass. The original Alice palette netbox takes obvious inspiration from the original illustrations for Alice in Wonderland. Whimsical mushrooms swirl around the mirror in the pop up portion, the caterpillar looms over Alice, and it’s basically a must-have for literary Alice memorabilia fans and collectors. This was one of the first palettes for which I popped the $60, and the one that made me a convert.

As one of those people, the fact that there are no original shades in this palette isn’t as much of a bummer as it would be others. That might sound surprising, but Urban Decay is notorious for re-purposing older shades in palettes. But it can be frustrating, so it pays to do your research prior to investing in a palette. From a purely financial standpoint, it’s a steal to get 16 eye shadows, two mini eyeliners, and a mini primer potion for that price. Buying each individually would run around $200. Granted, these are smaller than you would buy individually, but still it’s still a better deal.

Photo courtesy of Bustle.com

On the other hand, Through the Looking Glass makes up for it. With 20 new shades and a great design, this netbox delivers in more ways than one. One frequent offenses of the pop-up palettes is that they tend to skew toward the glittery-shimmery side of things, but there’s a good amount of matte shades for change. Another deviation in this palette is the organization of colors. They’re organized into columns according to character. Depending on how creative you are, this might make blending easier or feel limiting. I tend toward the former.

What’s your favorite palette and why?

Magnetic Boxes: The Allure of Magnets in Custom Packaging

When you want to add a little dash of panache to your packaging, you gotta go magnetic, as in magnetic boxes. At first, I was a little skeptical how cool a box could be. A box is a box is a box, right? But the first time I held one of these magnetic boxes in my hand, I let out a satisfied breath and thought, Yeah, luxury packaging is definitely a thing.

Magnetic boxes like the Netbox™ are just plain cool. Part of that coolness comes from the magnet itself. Fact: Everyone loves magnets. Why? It probably starts when we’re young. If you can’t remember the exact first time you saw a magnet, you can definitely remember playing with them at some point in your childhood. A pair of magnetic spheres twisting and swirling in a vortex around themselves on your kitchen table, or the clasp of your parents’ magnetic boxes becoming endlessly fascinating on a summer afternoon. The fascination began there, didn’t it?

But as you grew up, you realized magnets are still kind of a mystery, adding to their dapper mystique. We know manmade metals can be heated to their “Curie” levels, producing magnetic properties…but they also come from space! These metals get ionized by traveling on asteroids. Whoa. And don’t even get me started on lodestones! A lodestone is a naturally-charged magnetic stone….if you can call getting zapped by lightning ‘natural!’ It’s like a geological superhero!

All of these elements give magnets their allure, and magnetic boxes are no exception. You might say they have a magnetic personality all their own…

…or you might not.

Puns aside, there is something to be said for custom magnetic boxes in the world of luxury packaging. The NetBox™ feels like silk thanks to a soft-touch application, and there’s no denying that familiar snap of its magnetic enclosure. Opening magnetic boxes conjures the sense of unboxing a full array of rich chocolates–and a custom thermoform tray or a precision-cut foam insert can add to that feeling. Seeing an organized spread of items in elegant packaging sends a pretty strong message.

When the box itself feels like an heirloom, the trust in whatever its holding within goes through the roof.

A celebrity wouldn’t be caught dead in a fast food restaurant, and you wouldn’t put an elegant product in a shoebox. Well, unless the product is shoes–but you get the point! Dress your product for the job it wants, not for the job it has. And magnetic boxes are the business casual for the packaging world.

Custom Packaging Spotlight: Ramble FX Twin Bender Setup Box

Minnesota’s own Ramble FX knows that an elegant piece of equipment like their Twin Bender fuzz pedal needs elegant custom packaging. The custom box we crafted for them definitely fits the bill. It truly puts the custom in customized.

This luxurious custom package is a very unique combination of elements. The Ramble FX box is a rigid 2-piece setup box which means it has a strong, durable construction of sturdy chipboard that almost completely telescopes shut. A sliver of the bottom tray remains. This design is as functional as it is visual; the flash of red compliments the box while also providing a handhold for ease of opening. A custom package should always consider having this element or thumb notches for a smoother user interface.

The top or outer layer of this custom packaging sports the impressive Ramble FX logo, brought to life with crisp graphics and protected with a soft-touch lamination. This soft-touch feature ratchets down the glare as well as giving the packaging a high-end feel. When you have your hands on the Twin Bender custom box, you know it’s a fine piece of hardware before you even open it.

The bottom tray has it’s own unique glossy lamination, giving the red a glow while also giving the bottom a smooth, clean texture. The lower tray is fit with a foam insert, die-cut precisely for the pedal and matching the colors of the rest of the packaging. The devil is in the details, as they say.

The Ramble FX custom box has a highly-impactful presence, garnering an appreciation from the buyer that is opening their purchase for the first time, or the onlooker that may be in the market for a fuzz pedal. Truly impressive, unique, and personalized for a standout look. A beautiful frame for a masterpiece of musical equipment, and a testament to the added value of custom packaging.

As always, it was a pleasure to contribute to this truly artful custom packaging presentation.

Full Service Flash Drive Packaging

If you follow this blog with any consistency, you probably know how awesome the FlashPad™ is. If you don’t, here’s a brief reminder why it is the top tier of custom flash drive packaging.

The FlashPad is a turned-edge hardcover binding that, when affixed with a die-cut foam insert, essentially becomes a book. This “book” in turn can hold a flash drive, pen, or any other like materials. The near-endless customization options and sharp presentation make these pads a memorable packaging choice. Not everybody opens up an email…but everyone opens up a FlashPad.

But you might not realize how convenient it is to get your FlashPad from SunPack into your client’s hands. We’re practically a one-stop shop. Sure we make custom flash drive packaging, but we’re also a custom corrugated box and thermoforming facility–which means we can do so much more for you.

It’s Truly Full Service Flash Drive Packaging.

Let’s run through it, shall we?

Make and Model

You’ve decided you want to make a splash with the FlashPad. You’ve seen the statistics,and you know flash drive packaging will do the trick. So where do you begin? Well, technically you can start with the flash drive itself. These aren’t your father’s custom flash drives. You want one that’s dinosaur-shaped? You got it. Sunpack can get you the drive of your dreams. Consider it done.

Lock and Load

Let’s not forget why you’re going with flash drive packaging here. You’re going for all the great features a USB drive offers. Most important of all, the freedom that comes with massive storage space. With a flash drive, you can add that extra video. You can put the whole manuscript and the sequel. You can include all the photos you want. And guess what? We can load them up for you. You don’t have time to plug-and-load a hundred flash drives with all your e-materials. Let us handle that.

Dress it Up

Have you ever heard the phrase “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have?” That’s the FlashPad in a nutshell. It’s peacocking. It’s utilizing something unique to make a lasting impression on your potential client/publisher/producer/whatever. If you’re an independent businessperson, just a startup, this is your chance to send a message of professionalism. So choose your design well. Make the FlashPad look like your book, or give it the crisp, clean logo treatment to really brand yourself. In any case, we have you covered. With offset printing, turned edges, foil stamping and embossing, you know your custom flash drive packaging will look the way you want it.

Seal the Deal

When your flash drive packaging is looking dapper, the next step is to make sure it’s protected. Secure. That’s we we’ll shrinkwrap it for your. Fresh off the line, will make sure those colors stay sharp, those smudges stay off, and those prying eyes keep out until it reaches your recipient.

Special Delivery

And speaking of recipients, we can even take care of that too. Our corrugated packaging facility can create a custom mailer that perfectly fits your flash drive packaging. You can even customize that too. Add your logo or your office address. Heck, we can even seal it up and mail it for you.
What did you think I meant by Full Service Flash Drive Packaging. Just one of the awesome things we’re doing at Sunrise Packaging these days.

What’s Trending in High-End Custom Packaging

We’re reaching the back nine of 2015. It’s time to paint the shed, so to speak. If you haven’t had your finger on the pulse of custom packaging, now’s the time to catch up.

Earlier this year, Andrew Gibbs, well-known CEO of The Dieline, highlighted some of the trends in custom packaging. In an article written for the Creative Bloq, Gibbs points to 4 emerging hot spots in the world of package design:

Visual authenticity – a revival of raw, freeform, or handdrawn graphics
Luxury of less – subtle, texture-based iconography and design
Ultra-pure – a simple, clean look, perhaps most notably used by Apple
Bio-based – packaging that’s sustainable, or “environmentally responsible”

Are these trends mutually exclusive though? While Gibbs tends to point to these as separate entities, perhaps business owners can glean a singular lesson from this list. It would appear that clients and consumers alike are looking towards a clean and simple look. They are looking for transparency, integrity, and a product they can feel good about dispersing. Luckily these elements go hand in hand.

But make no mistake: these elements, though subtle and simple and interconnected, are still design choices. Turned-edge packaging, soft touch laminated surfaces, foil stamping and embossing are more important now than ever in establishing that clean, clinical look. And, more importantly, the quality in which these processes are completed needs to be sharper than ever. Making something look handmade is an overlooked artform. Looking sloppy and being sloppy are two different things–and yet immediately recognized by today’s consumer.

Testing Packaging Concepts – Prototyping

It is important to conduct qualitative research and preliminary tests on new packaging concepts before launching them in store. One guiding principle is to keep shoppers in a shopping mindset the following tips can make a big difference in your research and results. At sunrise we help a lot of companies with their market research by prototyping. Sometimes all it takes is to touch and feel your product before it is released in the market.

1. Present packaging concepts within competitive context- When concepts are shown next to competition, it is more realistic to the shopping experience and allows us to gauge competitive differentiation, which is critical to in-store success.

2.Minimize side-by-side design comparisons-Conversely, when shoppers see alternative design systems for the same brand simultaneously on a side-by-side basis, it immediately takes them out of a shopping mode and encourages a focus on aesthetics.

3.Show concepts in their totality– It is important to remember that shoppers encounter packages in their totality and that the “gestalt” of a design is often more than the sum of its parts. Therefore, you should consistently show shoppers full packages and then probing to understand which design elements are driving reactions.

4. Show concepts alone (without marketing support)– Finally, it’s important to remember that packaging typically has to work on its own, without the benefit of advertising or point of- sale support. In this day of fragmented media, it is simply unrealistic to assume that shoppers have recently seen your commercial.

Blog Source: Packaging News

The Custom Luxury Packaging Experts

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