It’s that time of year again…and you’re busy putting together your annual report. You’ve got the facts and the figures, but are you spending enough time on your report’s design? Did you know that the design and layout of the content can actually make or break your report? With so much at stake, you can’t afford not to make it count! Keep reading to learn how.
To allow you to concentrate on what really matters, we’ve put together some design tips to help you make your work, as well as your achievements, stand out and cement your brand as an organisation.
Have a unique cover page (and back cover)
Create a cover page that will catch the eye and make your annual report more appealing. Make sure to have an impactful back-cover message, too! Combined, these elements will make your document inviting for readers and allow it stand out.
Break your report into sections with an easy-to-navigate contents page
When you’re putting together documents, it can be hard to keep track of what information is in each section. If the reader has difficulty finding their way around your report, they might give up and move on to something else. The contents page is your friend; not only does it make your annual report easy to navigate, but also aids understanding and comprehension.
Include an appendix to store extra information
You should include a separate appendix for any additional information, such as long financial statements that are difficult to read when printed on their own without background images, or other distracting elements nearby – this will make it easier to consume. Plus, try using colour coding sections for navigating speed, which is particularly helpful in printed reports.
Make sure it is on brand and recognisable as your annual report
Ensure you have consistent use of your logos and brand styles throughout. This will make it recognisable as your report to readers and make it easier for them to follow along. Ensure any images you include are relevant and add value, otherwise it’s best not to use them.
Have a clear hierarchy of text that is easy to follow and navigate
Ask yourself, what are the key points vs. what is essentially additional information? If different sections are relevant for different stakeholders, consider signposting this through way finders or icons, for example.
Visualise your data
Something we’ve covered in another blog, here, is the power of Data Visualisation. Visualising your data helps you to connect with your audience emotionally, making abstract data easier for them to understand. It can make complexities, like the size of data or its speed, tangible. It can also make it easier for readers to recognise trends in data and draw conclusions. So, remove the fluff and simplify.
Consider your imagery style
Photos of people sell. They help to create a human element to your report. Similarly, using bold photography can help a document flow.
Balance text with visuals
Keeping your annual report’s layout in check is important for an optimal reader experience. Balance text with visuals to ensure your message is clear and concise. It’s important you don’t overuse large paragraphs of text. Think about using two-column layouts for readability. Additionally, you may consider using optimal whitespace, which keeps things crisp and clear.
Make your report interactive
Even simple elements, such as navigation buttons, improve the readers’ experience and make the report easier to consume. This can be done through multimedia elements such as videos, links to articles and/or blogs.
So, before you press ‘Save,’ stop and think about how to make your report the best it can be. After all, this is what gives your organisation brand recognition in an industry where your reputation matters!
This year, transform your report into an engaging piece content. The good news? IG can create visually appealing and informative annual reports easily, removing the headache for you. Get in touch!