ORCCA

37 organizations, 8,800 visitors, 2,100 resource downloads. How we transformed climate adaptation communications in Ontario.

As communities across Ontario face mounting climate challenges, there was a clear need for accessible, actionable climate adaptation resources. ORCCA (Ontario Resource Centre for Climate Adaptation) was conceived as the solution – a comprehensive digital platform to equip municipal practitioners, elected officials, and community leaders with essential climate resilience tools. As Creative Lead, I directed the development of ORCCA’s brand identity, digital platform, and resource materials, transforming complex climate adaptation strategies into engaging, practical guidance. Our goal was to empower Ontario communities to move confidently from understanding to action in building climate resilience.

Timeline

2023 onwards

A Visual Playbook on behavioural strategies for community action

Real-World Case Studies Collection of 30 documents providing practical implementation examples

Customizable Templates and Graphics to ensure consistent, engaging communications

As Creative Lead, I transformed a strategic need into a comprehensive climate adaptation resource by leading every aspect of the project from discovery to delivery. Beginning with deep user research and competitive analysis, I identified key opportunities to make climate communications more effective. This informed the development of ORCCA’s brand identity, digital platform, and suite of communication tools – all designed to make complex climate adaptation concepts clear and actionable.

Working independently under tight timelines, I moved from understanding user needs through competitive analysis, developing brand strategy and visual identity, designing and building the website, and creating comprehensive communication toolkits, AI imagery and resources. The project culminated in delivering both print and digital templates for ongoing use.

Taking on the challenge of creating a distinct identity in the climate space, I developed ORCCA’s comprehensive brand and digital presence from the ground up. Working within a tight one-month timeline, I employed an efficient ‘design in-browser’ methodology using WordPress and DIVI Builder to move quickly from concept to launch. The strategic use of AI tools for content creation and imagery helped maintain momentum while ensuring inclusive representation of diverse Canadian communities.

Conducted user research to develop personas, ensuring the digital resources would effectively serve diverse stakeholders from policy-makers to local communities

Developed a modern, distinctive brand identity that sets ORCCA apart in the climate space while maintaining professional credibility

Created a design system including style guide, brand guidelines, and communication templates to ensure consistency across all touchpoints

Designed and built a clean, functional website that makes climate resources accessible to the community

Leading ORCCA’s creative development reinforced that effective climate communications don’t have to follow the traditional, technical approach. By prioritizing clear visual hierarchies, intuitive navigation, and modern design principles, we proved that climate resources can be both serious and engaging. The project also highlighted the importance of creating flexible, scalable design systems – as ORCCA grew from a website to a comprehensive toolkit, having strong visual foundations allowed us to maintain consistency while adapting to new needs. Perhaps most importantly, we demonstrated that when complex information is presented in an accessible, visually appealing way, it’s more likely to be understood, shared, and put into action.

This case study highlights my expertise in: Climate communications strategy, complex resource visualization, end-to-end creative direction, and accessible information design.