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Department of Mechanical Engineering Series

A Case Study

The Department of Mechanical Engineering (ME) set out to revolutionize the visual landscape of the G.G. Brown Building. Through an ongoing collaboration with Michigan Creative, a series of environmental graphics featuring diverse research experiences and educational pathways, including robotics, bioengineering and artificial intelligence, enlivened the building’s halls and spaces. These graphics aim not only to introduce the department’s groundbreaking work and new branded identity but also to embody its mission to “Make the World Work Better” and inspire students.

The ground floor glass display case was updated with a framed fabric graphic highlighting three new "Share Your Stories" profiles, featuring one student, one alum and one faculty member. These profiles offer deeper insights into their unique journeys, and contributions focused on their ME experiences.

Revitalizing G.G. Brown: Mechanical Engineering's Bold New Look

To enhance the G.G. Brown Building’s ambiance and align it with the cutting-edge innovation taking place within its walls, the top-ranked Department of Mechanical Engineering wanted to create a series of new environmental graphics. These visually engaging displays needed to prominently feature:

A classroom wall display that showcases a collage of images from the “Share Our Stories” profiles, capturing the diversity and vibrancy of the U-M ME community while emphasizing how we “Make the World Work Better.”

The ground floor glass display case was updated with a framed fabric graphic highlighting three new “Share Your Stories” profiles, featuring one student, one alum and one faculty member. These profiles offer deeper insights into their unique journeys, and contributions focused on their ME experiences.

The wood display case at the building’s entrance was refurbished with a framed graphic dedicated to showcasing ME’s student organizations. This display will be regularly updated to highlight the dynamic involvement and accomplishments of these groups, encouraging all to “Make the Most of Your ME Experience.”

Challenge

The Department of Mechanical Engineering faces the challenge of effectively communicating the depth and breadth of its innovative work and renewed brand identity through visual means. The environmental graphics need to capture the attention and imagination of diverse audiences, ranging from prospective students to alumni, while embodying the department’s core values and vision of “Making the World Better.” This involves crafting a cohesive visual narrative that resonates with and inspires all who walk through the G.G. Brown Building.

Outcome

With support from Michigan Creative, known for its expertise in visual storytelling, these installations weave a cohesive narrative that embodies the vibrant character and forward-thinking ethos of mechanical engineering at U-M.

Project Goals

Increase awareness of the Department of Mechanical Engineering's innovative work and achievements and its mission to "Make the World Work Better."
Successfully introduce the department's new branded platform through strategic visual placements within the G. G. Brown Building.
Enhance the aesthetic environment, making it more engaging and informative for all visitors.
Encourage a sense of pride and connection to the department among students, faculty, staff and alumni.
Foster an environment that inspires learning, creativity, and collaboration by showcasing cutting-edge mechanical engineering projects and research.
Regularly update displays to reflect current advancements and the active engagement of student organizations, empowering students to "Make the Most of Your ME Experience."
A classroom wall display that showcases a collage of images from the "Share Our Stories" profiles, capturing the diversity and vibrancy of the U-M ME community while emphasizing how we "Make the World Work Better."
The wood display case at the building's entrance was refurbished with a framed graphic dedicated to showcasing ME's student organizations. This display will be regularly updated to highlight the dynamic involvement and accomplishments of these groups, encouraging all to "Make the Most of Your ME Experience."