I figured it might be interesting to see what goes on in the brain when I go through the design process for a new product. This is the difference between V-1 and V-2 of the Initiative Tracking System for DND5e.
What I Liked About V1
Besides a few cosmetic imperfections, the cards came together really nicely and represented what I initially envisioned- reusable, stackable cards made to hang off a Game Master screen and communicate conditions affecting unique types of characters in combat. Not to toot my own horn, but I think I nailed the intersection of form and function pretty well here💁🏻♀️.
What Needed Improvements
1. Packaging
I love a good box, and the first was just not cutting it. With V1, when you fold the cards and store them, the top-close box design wasn't able to remain fully closed, likely resulting in cards all in your game bag. Nobody wants that. V2 has been redesigned with a magnetic closure, ensuring the your bag is free from a Tracking System explosion.
Imagine that spell card is a Monster/NPC card... don't own any to take pics of
2. Integration With Other Tools
DND5e Monster, Creature and NPC cards exist and you may love to use them. In that case, it wouldn't make sense to rewrite their stats on the Monster/NPC cards provided, right? So why not create notches that it make easier to use all the tools at your disposal by allowing it to hold other cards. And if you don't use pre-made cards, it's so minimal that you won't even notice it there.
3. Table Compatibility
What if you don't have a DM screen or you're a player just using it to keep track of your conditions at the table? V1 wasn't so flat-surface-friendly with the tabs on the short side of the card, they just fell to one side. V2 takes care of this by scoring the short edge tabs to make it easier to fold them out.
4. Card Rigidity
V1 couldn't hold it's shape that well due to the material and thickness. For the wet erase compatibilty, we couldn't compromise on the material, so the card is now a little bit thicker and a little better at maintaining it's form once folded.
5. Cosmetic Improvements
Any little misalignments, weird wording or icons that didn't quite communicate their condition were noted and fixed.