Case Studies | Graphic Design

Research Report Design

This final report of a research assignment carried out for AFROPAC, SADCOPAC, and GIZ analyses SADCOPAC’s history as a network of Public Accounts Committees (PACs) in Southern Africa, with a special focus on its resolution-making mechanism.

Our brief was to produce a highly engaging report design that went beyond just being a collection of text-filled pages. The end of the project report had to be visually engaging and informative, highlighting achievements and appealing to the readers.

visually engaging and informative Visuals

The research report is filled with custom infographic designs and fresh photography to help readers navigate through the vast amount of information. The charts are clearly laid out to allow stakeholders to focus on the reported data. The fresh and clean design with bright colours from AFROPAC's and SADCOPAC's brand identities gives the report a current feel whilst supporting our client’s vision for the future.

Successful design for a knowledgeable audience

With a discerning audience, we didn’t take anything for granted, and every visual item of content is backed up by a deeply thought-out rationale to get a place in the report.

We included a wide range of layouts to add visual variety and keep readers engaged whilst guaranteeing consistency across the various layout structures that run through the research report design – which feels uncluttered and easy to read despite the significant amount of content.

Institutional Colour Palette

Using the institutional colour palettes of SADCOPAC and AFROPAC carries a lot of weight in the interim report design. Colour is used in blocks to structure pages with a mixture of written and highly visual content, like highlighting quotes and key stats in infographic-style layouts. It perfectly complements the simplicity of the design, adding a touch of dynamism. Colour continues to play a significant part in more text-heavy pages, helping divide up content and provide energy and positivity.

Font Size and Type

We made the text large enough for easy reading and chose Serif fonts that are highly readable for the main text, headings, subheadings, and labels. The primary and secondary fonts contrast nicely with each other. We used boldface type to highlight important words and text extracts for easy reading.

Font Size and Type

The Results.

AFROPAC, SADCOPAC, and GIZ now have a clear and compelling annual report design that revitalises their branding and mission - A piece of communication that was formerly distributed using unformatted text and failing to achieve the desired levels of readership amongst its members.

The PACs can apply the newly-established structured layout and brand identity to other communications. The author of the report and the client are very proud of the publication. We look forward to more opportunities to help them communicate their mission to build the African Continent with accountability and transparency.

Explore The Full Research Report:

Executive Summary

This document offers a thorough overview of the research report above. It synthesises key points for its readers, saving them time and preparing them to understand the study's overall content. To differentiate it from the research report, we created a bolder design style with flat vector graphics on the cover and throughout the document. It offers a more vibrant aesthetic to accompany a shorter reading experience whilst maximising impact.

Explore The Full Executive Summary:

Looking for annual report designers?

With a strong story, good design, and the right format, we can transform your organisation's data, milestones, and highlights into an engaging piece of content that helps you cultivate stronger connections with your investors, shareholders, or donors.

What do those types of annual reports look like? Well, you came to the right place. Interested? Let's talk!

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