Design and Prototyping
In 2011, The Rigamajig idea became real life when Cas Holman and her coed design group teamed up with High Line Toys and put their minds together to create a three-dimensional building toy for children. Rigamajig went through test runs by actual children, primary education instructors, and many wood-working and building career specialists (Cas Holman 2011). Cas Holman, the soul designer of The Rigamajig Project uses her engineering background repeatedly through her nonprofits and child growth projects to help those around the world (Cas Holman 2006).
Manufacturing/ Production and Recycling
In order to practice safe production for the company and workers, Cas Holman publicizes her manufacturing practices to prove her seriousness of this worldwide problem. According to Rigamajig.com, “All parts manufactured in the U.S. One Large Rigamajig includes 263 parts total. Rigamajig has been fabricated using the highest grade Baltic Birch Plywood and finished with a HAPS-free (Hazardous Air Pollutant-free) finish. Wingbolts and Hexnuts made from 100% recycled nylon. Rigamajig complies with ASTM and Consumer Product Safety Testing for Children’s Toys, US and EU. 4 week lead time ships from Providence, Rhode Island. Brain powered! No batteries needed” (Cas Holman 2011).
Marketing and Sales
Rigamajig is marketed to both girls and boys. It focuses on both genders being creative thinkers as well as skilled enough to bring their ideas to life through building blocks. According to Rigamajig.com, the Rigamajig toy supports safety within its users. Like many toys, the Rigamajig recommends usage by supervised children. Many classrooms have incorporated the Rigamajig for a better learning environment. Rigamajig is thoroughly marketed because of the companies rich beliefs in its product’s benefits; “Engaging the inquisitive mind and creative spirit, Rigamajig empowers children to think three dimensionally, building things larger than themselves. Valuable lessons are learned, exercise is had, and imagination is invigorated” (Cas Holman 2011). Rigamajig influences S.T.E.M. learning in the classroom. Schools support Rigamajig and their goals to help both girls and boys become creative through mathematics and science. According to Kaboom.org, “By adding ART to STEM learning, each of the disciplines benefit from a creative approach and the advantages of an art process. Multiple iterations, thinking 3-dimensionally, visualizing ideas, and critical making are a few of the methods art brings” (Darell Hammond 2015).
User Support and Maintenance
To provide user support, Rigamajig.com as well as the toy box purchase include a user manual with instructions for use. The instructions provide safety tips and hints to create the best products with the tools provided with their Rigamajig. The manual or booklet includes pictures and lists of all the tools and pieces that come with the toy. The booklet gives lessons on the S.T.E.M. subjects that the product encourages more use in. One part of the booklet that proves to be the most interactive is the “Play Prompts” page. There is a list of ideas provided to spark thinking in its users. For example, “Build a Rigamajig that can lift something, or build a structure that would allow you to live” (Cas Holman 2011). The booklet instructs and answers all user questions. Most importantly, the booklet includes safety precautions and maintenance care. Maintenance includes checking up on the parts, refinishing the wood after a period of time, and sanitation ideas. The manual helps guarantee a safe and long-lasting product, which helps customers feel more comfortable when purchasing a Rigamajig.
Children playing with the Rigamajig toy
