Case Study
Harvard’s Center for Middle Eastern Studies (CMES) was founded in 1954 to foster knowledge of Middle Eastern and Islamic societies and cultures; it encompasses almost 50 centers, institutes, schools, and societies. In order for CMES to increase awareness and engagement at Harvard, it needed to stand out.
After completing an audit of existing CMES materials including their website, brochures, posters, and stationery system, we gained an understanding of how CMES was perceived by external and internal audiences. Although most people referred to the Center for Middle Eastern Studies as CMES, there was no formal identity developed for this naming.
We created a logo for CMES that included a graphic pattern inspired by Hebrew, Arabic, and Turkish script and art. The new identity was applied to various print pieces, including the newsletter, brochures, and posters. Additionally, we created the new website using Open Scholar (the Harvard Web Publishing platform), providing a unique feel to meet the goal of standing out in the crowd.
Recognition
AAF/Albany Ad Club Award
A New Identity
Most people referred to the Center for Middle Eastern Studies as CMES, yet there was no formal identity developed for this naming. We created a logo for CMES, making recommendations to use the center’s shield on formal communications.
A Suite of Communications
As part of the organization’s new identity, we developed color, image, and graphic palettes. The graphic pattern was inspired by Hebrew, Arabic, and Turkish script and art. The new identity was applied to various print pieces, including the newsletter, brochures, and posters.
A Unique (Templated) Website
Along with the print material, we also redesigned the CMES website. Working with CMES and Harvard Web Publishing, we created a website using Open Scholar (the Harvard Web Publishing platform), which felt unique and met the goal of standing out in the crowd.
