UNA Spring 2024 Magazine
University of North Alabama’s biannual magazine is one of our favorite projects.
This year, in the midst of a campaign, we were challenged with a tight timeline (less than one month) to design the 60-page publication.
The magazine provides a bird’s eye view of all things UNA, educating stakeholders on the latest from each of the colleges, the President’s priorities, and events that have occurred for both students and alumni.
Scope and objectives
For this magazine, responsibilities included:
Branded design and layout in the pre-determined styles.
Stock photo and imagery as needed.
Custom designs as needed.
Quality control.
Bidding process.
Vendor communication and file delivery.
Print and digital files.
Content was delivered to us April 3, and we provided the first full proof by April 17. Final files were sent to the vendor, Progress Printing, and approved for printing at the end of May.
Strategy and Planning
With a limited timeframe, we had to focus design on the most important parts of the publication: The cover and cover story.
In highlighting the markers of excellence – and with the Shine On, Gold comprehensive campaign in full swing – we wanted to create a strong, gold visual that would leave a lasting impression.
We created icons that coincided with the three primary topics – classroom, community, and connections – and used photos that complemented these ideas.
Implementation
After the publication had been fully designed, we learned of the passing of the University mascot, Leo III. His caretaker, Anne Howard, died earlier in the year and was already featured in the magazine for her dedication. Now, we had to find a way to incorporate a spread highlighting Leo, as well.
By pulling a story that would still be fresh for the fall issue, we were able to provide a solution to this unforeseen circumstance.
Conclusion
We hope to have a more dynamic publication in the fall, but with the timeframe and circumstances surrounding this publication, it is stellar.
Clean, balanced, focused on photos and visuals, it is a publication we are proud to have in our portfolio.
