Interview about Bank of England Visual Identity, winner of the A' Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design Award 2022
Designing for a central bank means finding a balance between technical and sensitive information, staff-led outputs, engaging general communications, and a series of regulations. This is not simple to achieve and it is based on delicate internal dynamics. The new identity has been developed together with the people who will use it, balancing all the aspects of the communications. It focuses on reaching a wider public with an accessible, relevant, structured, and distinctive approach. These key principles have been used as a design direction for all the visual assets.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsIn the Bank of England Visual Identity, I focused on making complex, technical information visually accessible without oversimplifying it. Key principles included clarity, hierarchy, and a strong sense of consistency. I used simple, modern design elements to make the data approachable while maintaining the institution's credibility. By prioritizing legibility and using intuitive design choices, I ensured the identity resonated with a broad audience, from industry professionals to the general public, while preserving the institution’s authority and professionalism.
The inclusion of a dyslexia-friendly typeface and an inclusive Britannia seal in the Bank of England Visual Identity was driven by the desire to enhance accessibility and reflect the institution’s commitment to openness. The typeface was chosen to improve readability for a wider audience, including those with dyslexia, while the Britannia seal was redesigned to represent inclusivity, emphasizing unity and the bank’s connection to the diverse public it serves. These choices align with the Bank's goal of being more approachable, transparent, and responsive to all individuals, regardless of background or ability.
Remote collaboration during the pandemic played a key role in shaping the Bank of England Visual Identity. By working entirely online, I was able to engage with a wide range of staff across different departments. This facilitated their input, especially in designing charts and ensuring accessibility, which enriched the design process and helped make the final identity both relevant and inclusive. The collaborative approach was integral to creating a design that truly represented the Bank's values and mission.
The Bank of England Visual Identity draws from the historical elements of banknotes by using colors that echo the legacy of British currency. These colors were updated to fit a more contemporary aesthetic while maintaining the institution's gravitas. The result is a design that honors the bank’s long-standing history while enhancing readability and digital accessibility. By retaining the connection to banknotes, the design reinforces the bank's identity while embracing modern needs.
Consulting with accessibility charities was crucial in shaping the Bank of England Visual Identity. Their input highlighted the need for clear, legible charts and technical communications. We focused on simplifying data presentation, using high-contrast colors, clearer fonts, and more intuitive layouts to enhance readability. This ensured the design was not only visually appealing but also accessible to a broader audience, reflecting the bank's commitment to inclusivity.
The development of the one-size-fits-all chart template for the Bank of England involved balancing technical precision with public comprehension. We streamlined chart structures for consistency and clarity, ensuring data accuracy while making them more approachable. The design incorporated easy-to-read fonts, color contrasts for visibility, and intuitive layouts, helping to present complex data in a way that was both precise and accessible to a broad audience. This approach ensured clarity for technical users while being approachable for the general public.
In developing the Bank of England Visual Identity, I involved staff at various stages of the process to ensure their input shaped the design in a way that resonated with employees, including those without a design background. This approach was crucial for creating a system that balanced technical outputs with public communications. By incorporating staff feedback, we tailored the design to reflect the institution's culture while maintaining consistency and accessibility across all platforms.
The comprehensive online brand portal for the Bank of England Visual Identity serves as a central resource, providing staff and designers with easy access to brand guidelines, templates, and assets. This tool helps ensure design coherence across various applications by offering clear instructions and visual examples, making it easier to adhere to consistent branding practices and maintain the integrity of the identity across different platforms and media.
I envision the Bank of England Visual Identity setting a precedent for financial institutions by demonstrating how accessible design can effectively communicate complex information. Its focus on clarity, inclusivity, and usability can inspire other institutions to prioritize transparency and user-centered design in their communications. The design system encourages a broader industry shift toward making financial information more accessible to diverse audiences, ultimately enhancing engagement and trust.
A key lesson from the Bank of England Visual Identity project is the importance of balancing tradition with modernity. It’s essential to create designs that respect an institution’s legacy while embracing contemporary accessibility and communication needs. Also, involving diverse stakeholders throughout the process ensures the design resonates across departments and with the broader public, creating a system that works across various applications and remains coherent over time.
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