Showcasing Policy Success
Execution. Metrics & Adoption
Firm: City of Berkeley
Duration: 1 month
Problem
The City of Berkeley had recently enabled several dense development projects but struggled to communicate these successes in a way that was accessible to non-technical audiences.
How could complex policy outcomes be translated into clear, engaging materials that resonated with residents, consultants, and prospective applicants?
Context & Constraints
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Highly technical policy and planning outcomes
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Diverse audiences with varying levels of planning literacy
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Short timeline (1 month)
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Need for materials that could work across in-person and public-facing contexts
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The challenge was not generating more information, but making the right information legible and compelling.
Users & Stakeholders
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City planners and department leadership
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Residents and community members
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Consultants and prospective applicants
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External partners participating in City-led tours
Research & Inputs
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Stakeholder interviews with planners to identify the most meaningful project outcomes
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Leadership input to align messaging with departmental priorities
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Iterative feedback through presentations and reviews with department leadership
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Research focused on prioritization: what to show, what to simplify, and what to leave out.
Outcomes
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Produced a clear, accessible brochure and walking tour branding materials
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Supported 15 walking tours, engaging 500+ participants
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Increased consultant interest and applicant engagement with the department
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Enabled staff to communicate policy impact more confidently and consistently
