COVID-19 Icons
Challenge
As a public research university with an emphasis on experience-based learning, the University of Cincinnati (UC) confronted countless challenges in the face of the global COVID-19 pandemic. After the initial seismic shift required to successfully move all students and faculty into an online learning environment for the immediate future, university leaders worked tirelessly to chart a course forward that best upheld UC’s mission and vision while keeping the campus community safe. Countless operational changes were required as well as a thorough communication strategy.
Response
Over 67,000 new paper and vinyl signs on campus bear out the university’s COVID-19 messaging in physical spaces. The iconography emphasizes key safety messages on each of these signs and strengthens communications sent through other channels. Visually harmonious with other symbols already in use on campus, the prominence of the pictograms captures the attention of those who pass by the signage and speeds up their comprehension. The icons employ a traffic light color scheme to reinforce meaning.