Swap-O-Matic
The Swap-O-Matic (SOM) is a vending-type machine originally created by Lina Fenequito in 2005, which allows users to exchange or swap items that they no longer need for other items previously donated by another user. The machine seeks to promote and encourage recycling and trading as a means of countering needless consumption and reduce unnecessary waste.
History
The Swap-O-Matic was originally designed by Lina Fenequito as the final project as a part of her theses, while studying at Parsons School of Design to obtain her Master of Fine Arts. The machine was born out of the desire to provide a solution to the problem of over-consumption and waste. Its intention is to offer an alternative in today's disposable economy by encouraging communities to trade and reuse items in a fun and EXCITING way.
Lina Fenequito was employed with Americorps prior to commencing her MFA studies at Parsons School of Design. Swap-O-Matic was born out of her desire to find sustainable solutions specifically to the problems of "unconscious consumption" The machine, which allows users to barter unwanted items and receive desired items instantaneously, using the vending-machine type facility. It is anticipated that consumers would rethink their consumption habits and endeavour to recycle and reuse goods. The machine provides a meeting point for users to transfer their unwanted goods to other users who may find it useful while obtaining goods from other users that they may also find useful. Although consisting originally of only one machine that was circulated to various locations within the New York City, Fenequito expects that the bartering concept will catch on and inspire more sustainable living practices for people across not only the United States but also the entire world.
Versions
- Version 1.0
The first version of the Swap-O-Matic was designed by Lina Fenequito in 2005 while pursuing her Master of Fine Arts at Parsons School of Design, as the final project for her thesis. The first version consisted of a vending-machine like display, separated into compartments. Each compartment was secured with simple combination locks. A laptop was located next to the SOM. Users logged in or create an account using their email address.
That year this first version was tested at two locations in NYC: at the Lower East Side Girls Club and then at the Bluestocking Book Store.
- Version 2.0
Fenequito got help in improving the original Swap-O-Matic concept. An updated version of SOM was subsequently created and launched in August 2011. This time Fenequito collaborated with Rick Cassidy who did the electrical engineering for the machine as well as Ray Mancini who helped with the visual design.
The second version features touch-screen capabilty instead of a movable laptop and more secure digital locks. The machine is equipped with security features that help PReVENT vandalism or misuse of the system.
The operating principle remains the same. Users log in to the SOM by using their email address. They can elect to either donate, swap or receive an item from the menu options on screen.
Launch Pad, located in Brooklyn was the pilot venue for the second version when it was released in 2011. Subsequently it was moved to Ample Hills Creamery in December 2011, where it is still located as of January 2013.
Operation
The Swap-O-Matic appeals to the desire to acquire new things and functions on the assumption that "reusing and recycling can be just as fun as buying something new." Following on the same operating principle of vending machines which cater to people's desire for instant gratification, the Swap-O-Matic allows users to instantly donate, swap or receive items left by previous users. The SOM method is more sustainable and answers to the greater need to reduce, reuse and recycle through swapping and trading. One user's trash can easily translate into another's treasure.
After users log in on the SOM, they may elect to swap, donate or receive an item from the options on the touch-screen. The machine does not accept any form of monetary payment either through cash or any of the various forms of electronic payments. Donated items are not assigned a monetary value. Everything is operated based on the principles of bartering. The system works on the basis of credit accumulation. A new user is initially awarded three credits. Users earn additional credits by donating an item. Users receive one credit for each item donated regardless of perceived or market value. To receive an item also requires just one credit regardless of the perceived value of the item being received. Swapping does not require nor will it accumulate any credit. The process is free and instantaneous.
The requirement to provide an email address is a useful safety feature that could reduce possible misuses as email addresses are flagged when abuse is suspected.
Any of a wide variety of items can be obtained from the SOM as its content depends exclusively on what users themselves donate. Previously bartered items include "a handwritten poem, metro cards, guitar picks, shoes, books, mugs, and t-shirts," "original artwork (and) toys".
Location
The only Swap-O-Matic machine is located at an ice cream shop called the Ample Hills Creamery, in Brooklyn, New York. Previously it was located at several other locations in its tour around New York City.
Next steps
Fenequito is in the process of developing an updated version of the Swap-O-Matic along with her team. This model is expected to incorporate social media networks as well as an improved interface for the touch-screen. Its release is anticipated for fall 2013.
See also
- Barter
- Sustainable living