Empowering Notetakers with Insightful Design
Creating a Notebook Collection to Elevate the User’s Experience
CHALLENGE
Staples, a leading office supply retailer, sought to break new ground in the highly competitive notebook category by creating a note-taking system that goes beyond traditional functionality. The goal was to design a product collection that supports users with expert guidance on their note-taking journey, establishing Staples’ unique point of view in the category. Through research-driven insights into why and how people take notes, Staples aimed to create a unique system that would empower users to get more out of their notes while establishing Tru Red as a standout brand in the category.
SOLUTION
The Tru Red™ Expert Notetaking Collection was designed to transform note-taking into a more structured and purposeful experience by seamlessly integrating form and function. Grounded in in-depth research on the psychology of note-taking, the collection was developed to align with users’ workflows, ensuring that every element serves a meaningful purpose.
From layout and structure to specialized templates and expert-guided formats, each feature was designed to help users capture, organize, and maximize their notes effectively—whether for work, study, or creative projects. By combining practical design with insightful guidance, the collection establishes a new benchmark in the notebook category, empowering users to take notes with greater clarity and efficiency.
STARTER JOURNAL SERIES
EXPLORE JOURNAL SERIES
MASTERY JOURNAL SERIES
“With the Tru Red™ Expert Notetaking Collection, note-taking evolves from a simple act into an expertly guided experience that supports every user’s unique workflow”
DESIGNED WITH
BIRSEL + SECK
CLIENT
STAPLES
SERVICES
STRATEGY, USER RESEARCH,
INTERACTION DESIGN, PRODUCT DESIGN