Why Scientists Need Design Services: Custom Graphics for Public Outreach

At SayoStudio, we know that every science communication project has unique goals. Our custom science visuals are designed to enhance understanding, promote engagement, and communicate your unique message. All to ensure your science reaches the people who matter most—whether they’re policymakers, landowners, or the general public.

Effective science communication isn’t just about creating visuals—it’s about using them strategically. In this blog, we explore how researchers and organizations can maximize the impact of their visuals in public outreach, adapting them for both technical and non-technical audiences. By identifying the most effective formats for your unique audiences, we ensure your investment in custom science visuals delivers lasting value.

Turning Complex Geoscience into Clear Communication

Recently, we completed a project visualizing the importance of geodesy—the science of measuring Earth’s shape, orientation, and gravitational field. GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) stations are a key instrument used in this field of geology. They collect high-precision data used for environmental monitoring, natural hazard detection, navigation, and land surveying. While GNSS data is invaluable to geoscientists, explaining the significance to the general public can be challenging—especially when these instruments are located in visible public spaces.

For this project, effective science outreach and communication were essential. The challenge was to translate technical information into scientifically accurate and engaging visuals. Additionally, the visuals needed to maintain cohesive design elements, including consistent illustrations, colors, icons, and typography, to ensure they could be seamlessly adapted across multiple deliverables.

Custom Graphics for Public Outreach in Action: Posters, Brochures, and Signage

To achieve this, we designed a suite of educational materials tailored to different audiences and contexts. By combining technical copy with thoughtful design, we ensured that each design resonated with its intended audience:

• Poster: Created for conferences and educational events, the poster provided a visual overview of geodesy and geodetic data collection.

• Brochure: Aimed at policymakers and landowners, the brochure emphasized the broader impact of GNSS data on environmental monitoring, public safety, and land management, helping stakeholders understand why supporting these stations is crucial.

• Instrument Signage: Installed near the GNSS stations, this signage served a dual purpose—educating the public about the function of these instruments and demonstrating the importance of these instruments.

Our work on this project illustrates the versatility of custom geoscience graphics in public outreach. Our strategically designed graphics communicate the importance of geodesy and GNSS data through science accuracy and appealing visuals.