Graphic Design student scoops award for interactive debit card aimed at helping people save money

A Graphic Design student at the University of Derby has won a top prize in the Royal Society of the Arts Student Design Awards for an interactive debit card that aims to save people money.

Liam Tuckwood entered one of the 12 categories, which involved creating a design for people to improve their financial capability and manage their money better.

Liam’s design project, Emote, was an interactive debit card with a face that reacts and emotes based on the user’s spending and remaining bank balance; the card is linked to an app that serves as a budget tool and reminder.

The third-year student was shortlisted from more than 1,000 UK and international students to a finalist’s phase. This then led to a live project pitch.

Liam was also given the opportunity to work with a banking mentor at The Royal Bank of Scotland with whom he was able to discuss his vision of an interactive, animated bank card.

A cash prize of £1,500 was also awarded to Liam.

Liam said: “The University played an active role in my success. It was during a feedback session that the rough sketch was pointed out by my tutors. I had initially dismissed the idea but my tutors thought the concept could be further explored. I am very grateful for the support given by the University, my tutors and my Royal Society of the Arts mentor.”

The Royal Society of the Arts’ feedback on the project was: “The judges applauded the in-depth research and design thinking process, the ‘solid understanding of human nature’, and the clever simplicity of the solution. They also commended the fantastic video and prototypes, and the ‘excellent and extremely professional pitch.’”

Liam attended the awards ceremony, at the RSA HQ in John Adam Street in London, where he received his award.

Find out more about studying BA (Hons) Graphic Design at the University of Derby.

Learn more about the Royal Society of the Arts Student Design Awards.