The examples below represent a cross section of schools, departments, and centers across the University, and our new cross-disciplinary brand approach to each.
Demonstrating the University’s Mission
The President’s Annual Report
Boston University's FY2022 Annual Report showcases a year filled with achievements, such as groundbreaking research on lab-grown lungs and the inauguration of a new building. To complement the print publication, the homepage features the cover's dynamic green stoplight and endless BU skyline featuring iconic campus buildings, all symbolizing uninterrupted progress.
Storytelling at BU
SPH This Year
SPH This Year 2022 features five strategic research directions tackling the challenges of the "Next Public Health." Vibrant colors and illustrations reflected the pioneering, bold tone of the school. The slipcase posed thought-provoking questions, one for each research direction, while the cover blended distinct color bands into a spectrum, symbolizing the interconnectedness of public health challenges. Inside, themes like collaboration and health equity were explored, highlighting BUSPH's leadership in urban health and holistic well-being.
Creating a Hook
Someday University Television
This television campaign about BU research begins at the end: with what our research means to the world and to the viewer. The message hits home because the audience is invested in the outcome before we introduce the idea of research.
A Brand within a Brand
The College of Engineering Brand Campaign
The College of Engineering has embraced a new strategic plan focused on convergent thinking and research to enhance its reputation. A brand video featuring faculty and students was created to illustrate this approach, and distinct composite face images were used to support the story. Marketing efforts included posters on Commonwealth Avenue, postcards to peers during ranking voting, and a redesigned alumni magazine and website that highlighted the strategic plan and convergent research.
Building a Simple, Compelling Message
CDS Print Ad
To promote the new Center for Computing & Data Sciences and the Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences (CDS) within it, we published a two-page print ad in The New York Times and The Washington Post. Using dynamic photography and a clever headline, the ad spotlighted both the new building and CDS’ innovative approach to teaching data sciences.
Thinking about the End User
College of Arts & Sciences Website
The use of a modular design allows for frequent updates, keeping it fresh for students and staff. Intuitive navigation helps prospective students explore a vast sea of majors. And, of course, it’s mobile friendly.
Exploring Different Flavors of Our Brand
Dining Website
Every communication is an opportunity to extend our brand’s spirit. Even if that communication is an internal piece telling present students about dining hall hours. Here, rich photography and an enticing layout make for a deliciously information-laden website that entertains and engages.
Delivering Our Brand Voice
Admissions Print and Web
Our Admissions communications are direct and bold without being pompous. We are showing this important communications piece to illustrate some deviations. Not all design needs to use Whitney if the visual and font further the message. BU’s photography is another important way to express our voice. Its authenticity is important to the design.
Using Environmental Media
BU Shuttle Bus Wraps
The BUS has been transformed into a roving billboard throughout our three Boston campuses that reinforces the University’s status as a major research institution.