Development summary
Visual art, Visual identity, information gathering & analysis, writing online content, Developing information webpages (Project index and focused webpages)

Presenting an information project that celebrates and embraces neurodivergent achievers, role models, game changers and trailblazers.

Background

The project originally developed as “Diverse Achievers”. The presentation was initially linked visually to the online feature “Diverse Differences”. However, the project was reassessed after gaining further insight into how the message of embracing neurodivergent talent could be strengthened. I therefore decided to redesign the project with renewed energy in order to build upon its objectives.

The updated concept has a stand-alone identity while still maintaining a visual connection with the “Diverse Differences” online feature.

My Approach
In developing this project, I wanted the overall output to feel vibrant and energetic. However, I did not want the project to appear excessively bold or overly influenced by creative trends, as this could convey the wrong message. Many neurodivergent people do not appreciate neurodiversity being presented as a trend, as it can fuel unhelpful prejudices. Therefore, I chose to use a more balanced and thoughtful creative approach.

Preparation
Before beginning the redesign, I started developing ideas on how the project could evolve further. As a result, the updated look needed to remain adaptable for future expansion.

Creative Aspects
The concept incorporates a blended pattern of vibrant shapes, combined with a lighter visual approach using colour tints and monochrome patterns.

The pictorial icons used throughout the project were remodelled using stronger monochrome colours with subtle three-dimensional effects to create a greater sense of depth.

One of the major changes within the updated look was the introduction of a colour-coding system across the six different categories, allowing them to be displayed both separately and collectively.

The new colour-coding system was also applied to the presentation of individual pages linked to each category within the achievers list.

A family of word marks was created to help identify and navigate the different aspects of the project.

In addition, a new family of social media templates was developed. Using the new colour-coded system, these templates strongly highlight the types of positions and achievements attained by neurodivergent individuals. This approach was designed to avoid featuring names in a way that had previously caused imbalance between featured individuals and had also triggered disruptive criticism.

The updated design is strong and vibrant while simultaneously maintaining a light and approachable feel, without appearing heavy.