Microsoft DEI
Scroll for the case study, click HERE to download the report (opens in a new tab)
overview
DEI was a hot topic and a loud voice going into 2019. Microsoft tasked WE Communications to use their dei results and report as recruiting tools for diverse tech professionals.
it was also a flex of their already stellar equity. (for tech) (...at the time)
I still get nightmares about this document.
many hands.
The development of the DEI document involved a vast collaboration, with dozens of individuals contributing their expertise in design, writing, and departmental direction. Executive and legal departments were deeply involved in the process, adding layers of complexity to the project. Navigating the diverse perspectives and requirements posed a significant challenge, demanding patience, perseverance, and a remarkable level of coordination.
Keep it corporate.
Creating graphic concepts for a corporate giant like Microsoft was a challenge. The WE Communications team was given a two-color scheme and graphic direction from Microsoft to make it "New, but keep it corporate". Our challenge was to add some personality while leaning heavily on Microsoft's stock photography library. To achieve this, we incorporated dynamic typographic treatments and modern layouts that injected a sense of “directed attention” to DEI - without compromising the established corporate feel.
a little bit of everything.
The original intent of the document was to present a comprehensive data visualization of DEI and pay factors at Microsoft. However, as the project unfolded, it evolved into something much more expansive. It transformed into more of a field guide that delved into all of Microsoft's benefits, support groups, and community support initiatives, with callouts of Microsoft and its offered perks supporting its employees.
This shift in intent broadened the scope of the document from a narrow focus on data visualization to a larger employee experience guide.
The finished product
…has been removed from Microsoft’s download page. The link is still there. I have a copy upon request.