What do you think might change or be the same about packaging twenty years from now?

Hine, The Total Package
NOTE: This reading comes from a book first published in the mid-1990s. As you read, you may notice some of the author’s statements are no longer valid. However, I believe this is still a useful reading for two reasons. First, many of the observations and arguments still apply to the ways packaging is designed and used today. Second, it is useful to compare Hine’s statements and predictions with where things are today. As you read, be sure to ask yourself if you believe his conclusions and statements are consistent with what you experience in your interactions with “packaging” today.
According to Hine, what are some of the functions that packaging serves?
Hine uses a very liberal definition of “package.” He even describes some architecture as packaging and talks about how we as people package ourselves.
Do you agree or disagree with his broad view?
Explain reasons for your opinion.
On page 23, Hine makes some predictions about how packaging might work in the future (based on his perspective from the mid-1990s). You might find yourself ready to laugh out loud when you read the statement, “Although computer-based retailing has been disappointing . . .” (p. 23). Remember, Amazon did not launch until 1994, and did not turn a profit until after 2000. So, from the vantage point of 1995-ish, Hine was correct.
However, given that we are now in 2020, which of Hine’s predictions about packaging have come true?
Which have never materialized?
What do you think might change or be the same about packaging twenty years from now?
Select a piece of packaging. Some ideas include: a toothpaste tube, a candy bar wrapper, a perfume or cologne bottle, a soup can. If you do not have easy access to a piece of packaging, you can find an image of a packaged product online and answer your questions based on your research using the manufacturer’s webpage (or a retailer’s page). Briefly discuss the following for the packaging that you have selected:
What material is used for the packaging and why do you think this material was selected?
Why is the shape appropriate (or inappropriate) for the product?
What messages, if any, are included on the packaging?
Overall, what major functions do you think this packaging was supposed to fulfill, and do you think that the design was effective in accomplishing those functions?
Is there anything that could be done to improve the packaging?

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