Eric Smoldt
Objective: The goal of my work as Director of Visual Communication for the CMSC was to establish a clear, professional, and engaging visual identity that supported the organization’s mission and effectively communicated its purpose to stakeholders and the community.
Context: CMSC required a cohesive and recognizable brand presence across both digital and print platforms to enhance awareness and foster trust with its audience. My role focused on creating visual assets that would elevate the organization’s visibility and strengthen its messaging.
Challenges: One of the main challenges was balancing the technical accuracy required for CMSC’s industry with the need to make the materials visually compelling and accessible to a broader audience. Additionally, managing all visual communications independently meant I had to optimize my time and resources effectively.
Process: I began by conducting a thorough review of CMSC’s mission, target audience, and existing materials. From there, I developed a branding framework that included color schemes, typography, and graphic elements aligned with CMSC’s goals. I collaborated with internal stakeholders to refine these visuals, ensuring that every asset, from reports to presentations, was cohesive and engaging. This process involved consistent feedback loops and iterative adjustments to maintain alignment with CMSC’s strategic goals.
Learnings: Working independently on such a broad range of visual projects taught me the value of strategic planning and prioritization. I honed my skills in creating systems for visual consistency which allowed me to produce high-quality work efficiently. I also gained a deeper understanding of how to translate complex information into clear, accessible visuals.