We're not all about detailed strategy here at GrowThink as this case study demonstrates. Sometimes we get our more creative hats on and help with messaging and brand positioning too.
The customer in this case was the last commercial shipyard on the Clyde, just outside Glasgow. Having helped to shape their brand and identity in the past we were asked to develop some materials for their new state of the art facility in Port Glasgow. This blog gives an insight to our thinking and a sneak peak at some of the work we've developed.
The client Ferguson Marine is primarily a shipbuilder having launched over 300 vessels from their Port Glasgow facility. If you've island hopped off the West Coast of Scotland then chances are you've been on a ferry built by Fergusons.
Fergusons have been reinvigorated through an injection of fresh talent, ambition and investment under their new owners Clyde Blowers Capital. Part of this investment involves a complete overhaul of their yard covering production and office areas. So a great client to work with and one with huge vision for their further growth.
Ferguson Marine's Port Glasgow Facility
GrowThink were tasked with designing some panels and signage for their main reception, boardroom and access areas. The brief was to capture the traditions of a yard over 100 years old with the advanced technology now offered by the new Ferguson Marine.
Using Tech to Modernise the Brand
With the main priority to showcase Ferguson's technical capability we looked for ways that traditional panels could be optimised for this messaging. To do this we obtained records of the vessels built by Ferguson and through research into these we were able to create a visualisation using data from a 3rd party website to show the exact location of all the current Ferguson Marine fleet.
This map is integrated into a traditional wall panel and is interactive as the user can zoom into a vessel and find out more about its location, current route and other key data - see the example below for a feel for how this will work.
Automated ship tracker - part of one of the interactive panels designed for Ferguson Marine (click any of the coloured ship icons above learn more about the fleet)
Recognising the Yard's Traditions
To address the strong traditions of the yard and the heritage of "Clyde Built" we sourced numerous images of key moments at the yard and created a timeline which will showcase the proud history of Fergusons.
A mock of this is shown below with numerous highlights of the yard's early history right through to recent advances such as the launch of the first diesel-electric hybrid ferry in the world. The panel will have a contemporary feel through use of feature lighting on the timeline.
Two history panels capture the heritage as well as more recent technological breakthroughs at Ferguson Marine
In addition throughout the new block a series of images from a recently commissioned photo shoot will be used to highlight technologies such as virtual reality headsets which assist with ship design. These will be accompanied by simple impact statements to fully demonstrate the scope of Ferguson's complete offering. Some examples below give a feel for how this will be realised.
Lift shaft will have graphics applied for each floor with dynamic imagery and powerful copy to demonstrate the range of services provided by Fergusons
The project included various other elements all designed to highlight Ferguson's unique blend of traditional shipbuilding craft utilising modern technology. We're confident it'll all look great when installed and give just the right impression for vistors to the new Port Glasgow offices.
Keep an eye on our blogs for more on this project once the installation is complete.
If we can help you shape your brand in similar ways then give us a call on +44 (0)7770 325 252 or contact us via the form here.