Transforming High-quality Research into High-impact Design
When it comes to academic publishing, it can be challenging to create materials that match the depth and quality of the research itself. Many research teams start with DIY layouts in programs like Microsoft Word, but these often lack the polish, clarity, and engagement needed to truly connect with readers. So what’s the solution?
The answer is professional book design. We partnered with Harvard University to transform years of research into a beautifully designed workbook—showing how thoughtful graphic design can bring complex research to life.
Graphic Design for Academic Research
At Wyndetryst, we get the incredible privilege of working on projects that make a real impact—and our collaboration with Harvard University’s Human Flourishing Program was one of those special opportunities.
Design that Matches the Depth of the Research
Researchers at the Human Flourishing Program, spent years researching the topic of Forgiveness and its positive impacts on society. This culminated in a program that the Harvard team has shared with secular and religious groups to help facilitate deep conversations and tools regarding forgiveness. Central to this program is a companion workbook that helps guide participants through exercises that cultivate forgiveness in just a few hours.
Initially the team was using a DIY version of the workbook put together in Microsoft Word. They soon realized that the quality of the workbook needed to match the quality of their research.
Harvard entrusted us with taking their initial Word document and transforming it into a fully designed, 140-page custom workbook. To make the experience engaging and meaningful, we developed a fresh visual theme for the project, infused with dozens of hand drawn custom illustrations that carried warmth, personality, and energy across every page. The result is a workbook that feels alive, approachable, and deeply human—qualities that align beautifully with the subject of forgiveness.
“We handed out the first printed batch of the workbooks
at a big event we had this past Friday and people
loved it! Thanks and looking forward to
our continued partnership.”
– Kate Jackson-Meyer, Ph.D., Research Associate, The Human Flourishing Program
Expanding Research Design into Marketing Tools
Once the core workbook design was complete, we expanded the project to create supporting materials that would extend its reach. We designed newsletter ads for email campaigns, a PowerPoint template design to provide their team with a branded presentation tool, and event flyers to promote future initiatives connected to the Forgiveness Project.
Working with Harvard on such an inspiring project was a true joy, and we’re honored to have played a role in helping this workbook reach more people. We hope it serves as a meaningful guide for all who embark on the path to forgiveness.
Does Your Academic Research Need Graphic Design?
High-quality research deserves graphic design that communicates its value clearly and effectively. Whether you need a custom workbook design, supporting materials like PowerPoint template designs and flyers, or a full brand system, Wyndetryst Graphic Design Studio can help elevate your work. If you’re ready to transform your research into engaging, professional materials, reach out today—we’d love to help bring your project to life!