TechNatSec
The HBS and MIT Sloan Technology & National Security Conference is a pivotal event scheduled to bring together leaders and experts from diverse fields to explore the intersection of technology and national security. This conference, jointly organized by Harvard Business School (HBS) and MIT Sloan School of Management, will take place at the heart of Boston, a hub for innovation and academic excellence.
Client
Harvard Business School & MIT Sloan
DELIVERABLES
Visual Identity
Year
2024
Website
Design Process
Design Process
Key elements like the MIT dome, symbolizing innovation and education, were integrated into the design. The semi-circle at the top of the logo represents the iconic dome of MIT, a symbol of technological advancement and academic excellence. The incorporation of negative space to form the "H" alludes to Harvard, paying homage to its rich heritage in leadership and management education. The shield, traditionally associated with protection and security, aligns with the conference's focus on national security, conveying a sense of safety and resilience.
Key elements like the MIT dome, symbolizing innovation and education, were integrated into the design. The semi-circle at the top of the logo represents the iconic dome of MIT, a symbol of technological advancement and academic excellence. The incorporation of negative space to form the "H" alludes to Harvard, paying homage to its rich heritage in leadership and management education. The shield, traditionally associated with protection and security, aligns with the conference's focus on national security, conveying a sense of safety and resilience.
Color Choice
Ruby Red serves as the primary color, chosen for its commanding presence and association with critical importance. In national security contexts, red signals priority and attention without feeling aggressive. The choice also connects directly to Harvard's crimson and MIT's red, creating a visual link to both institutions while maintaining its own distinct identity. Raven's Coat, a deep near-black, grounds the palette and adds sophistication. It reinforces the serious nature of the subject matter while ensuring strong contrast for readability. Antique White serves as the main background color throughout the brand system. Its warm, cream tone softens the intensity of the reds and adds a subtle academic quality that aligns with Harvard and MIT's heritage, creating a more inviting canvas than pure white.
Color Choice
Ruby Red serves as the primary color, chosen for its commanding presence and association with critical importance. In national security contexts, red signals priority and attention without feeling aggressive. The choice also connects directly to Harvard's crimson and MIT's red, creating a visual link to both institutions while maintaining its own distinct identity. Raven's Coat, a deep near-black, grounds the palette and adds sophistication. It reinforces the serious nature of the subject matter while ensuring strong contrast for readability. Antique White serves as the main background color throughout the brand system. Its warm, cream tone softens the intensity of the reds and adds a subtle academic quality that aligns with Harvard and MIT's heritage, creating a more inviting canvas than pure white.
Typography
The "Outfit" font was chosen for the wordmark because of its commanding presence and geometric structure. The typeface has a weight and authority that matches the gravity of the conference's subject matter, technology and national security aren't light topics, and the typography needed to reflect that seriousness. The clean, structured letterforms convey precision and technical credibility, which aligns with the academic rigor of Harvard and MIT. At the same time, "Outfit" remains highly legible across all applications, from large-scale event signage to digital platforms and print materials.
Typography
The "Outfit" font was chosen for the wordmark because of its commanding presence and geometric structure. The typeface has a weight and authority that matches the gravity of the conference's subject matter, technology and national security aren't light topics, and the typography needed to reflect that seriousness. The clean, structured letterforms convey precision and technical credibility, which aligns with the academic rigor of Harvard and MIT. At the same time, "Outfit" remains highly legible across all applications, from large-scale event signage to digital platforms and print materials.
Brand Direction
The brand direction was shaped collaboratively through moodboarding, where two distinct visual paths were explored. After review, the client resonated with a mix of both directions, which guided the development of the visual identity moving forward.
Brand Direction
The brand direction was shaped collaboratively through moodboarding, where two distinct visual paths were explored. After review, the client resonated with a mix of both directions, which guided the development of the visual identity moving forward.
