STRIDE
A UW–Madison Consortium
Pushing the boundaries of engineering and design.
The STRIDE Consortium is led by Dr. Jesse Hampton of Civil & Environmental Engineering. The group pushes the scalar boundaries of remote sensing for subsurface engineering to decrease uncertainty, interpret and mitigate the risk of natural and induced geohazards, and reduce the overall cost of subsurface engineering. They work with industry affiliates to better understanding geological system behavior, with benefits for humanity, Earth systems, and power generation.
Our goals
- Create a cohesive campus co-brand suite complementary to Jesse’s lab.
- Translate complex research for non-expert audiences.
- Employ an earth-toned, colorblind-friendly palette.
- Promote industry membership and federal funding.
- Feature a growing portfolio of industry-facing projects.
The challenge
STRIDE is a new consortium focused on gaining industry members and securing federal funding for important new dimensions of geothermal research. Jesse wanted STRIDE’s visual identity to complement his lab website and clearly communicate their industry relevance beyond geothermal companies.
Our approach
RIO worked closely with Jesse’s team to turn data into design, and apply their new identity across web and recruitment materials.
Our work included:
- Branding development
- Logo design
- Web design & build
- Copywriting & editing
The website was the primary deliverable from this project. It needed to translate complex research for non-expert audiences and draw interest from potential industry partners. RIO led copy and tone while Jesse came with a preferred colorblind-friendly palette that complemented his lab branding, as the logos would often be displayed together.
The main logomark and backgrounds both use real data formations made into design elements. The mark adds seismic movement emphases to indicate the geothermal monitoring STRIDE performs, while the three strands represent the multiple scales of analysis. The gradient was Jesse’s request, but became an essential part of the application. The web copy draws in industry reps who might not understand everything about geothermal energy, but can identify precisely how STRIDE can help them.
The impact
Through a bold co-branding approach, the STRIDE website utilizes association with UW–Madison in subtler ways, complemented by a strong visual identity for the consortium to branch out. STRIDE can build their own reputation, supported by a known research prestige.
The site creates clear pathways for potential industry members to learn about how geothermal research can make their company safer and more efficient.
Designed to showcase research accessibly, it provides an industry-facing design that grabs attention and can grow as the consortium does.
The results
A professional web presence that establishes a data-driven visual identity that still leverages UW–Madison’s research legacy.
Through close collaboration between researcher and communicator, complex science was transformed into clear, engaging content that helps industry partners and federal funders connect with the consortium’s work. This foundation positions STRIDE for continued growth, visibility, and impact.
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