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The studio process begins with the sponsoring company identifying a problem to be solved or an opportunity to explored. Next, the interdisciplinary faculty and staff team is created. During the 10-12 week project studio, the sponsoring company offers occasional help to review progress and provide information. Based on extensive research, consumer insight, and occasional company input, the teams then design innovative products or services which can include prototypes, technology solutions, and business models. Once the project is complete, the sponsoring company owns all intellectual property.
Phase One: Research
 Research on bath cultures around the world; revealed a Japanese tradition of bathing with aromatic organic materials that were believed to have healing or other beneficial properties. One such additive is the Mikan, a large orange-like citrus fruit.
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 Phase Two: Concept
The Concept phase involved intense ideation sessions in which insight gained from consumer and member input was used to drive the form creation forward. Drawing on inspiration from the research the Mikan Ball Concept would purify water using PUR technologies and also have an aromatherapy disk to create a relaxing bath atmosphere.
Phase Three: Refinement
 During the refinement phase the product benefits were clearly defined: establishing the concept as a response to the growing consumer desire to create a spa atmosphere within the comfort of their home, as well as providing the consumer with pure bathing water, to promote healthy skin all over. Final design cues drew inspiration from the shape and texture of the Mikan fruit.
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