I’m often asked the question, “When should I start to think about my organization’s annual report?”
The answer? 365 days per year!
Whether you run a non-profit or for-profit business, I counsel my clients to keep a file throughout the year of photos, data points, artwork, success stories and other content you may want to include in your report. Adding these elements to your report file doesn’t mean you’ll use all of them. No judging or deciding as you build your file of ideas. Nothing’s off limits, within your brand guidelines.
Annual Reports Play a Starring Role
Your annual report doesn’t just satisfy a legal requirement. It plays a starring role in communicating your brand identity, stories of success and financials. A well-designed, well-written report is an important piece that sums up your year in an interesting and dynamic way.
Choose the Best Format
Annual reports have evolved over the years. We’ve come a long way from traditional printed reports to colorful, engaging print and digital formats in lots of different sizes and shapes. How do you know which format is right for you? Your report needs to showcase your brand’s achievements in a format that aligns with your product, service and mission.
Are you looking to shake it up this year and use a square booklet format? Could it be time for a blast from the past and a tabloid size newspaper layout? Maybe you’re thinking about larger photos and less content? Are your charts and graphs in need of a facelift?
Themes Help to Tell Your Stories
When you use a compelling, creative theme and narrative, your report becomes even more exciting to read. Is there a strong theme that exemplifies your work throughout the year? Did your work affect change in a significant way? How would you describe your successes in a few words or a bold visual element?
What’s in Your Annual Report File?
It’s never too late to start and add to your annual report file. It’s easy. Just designate a spot in your office and a file on your computer’s desktop where you’ll collect creative ideas and content. When it’s time to begin the design and writing process to produce your report, you’ll be so glad you thought about it 365 days a year!
Need some fresh design ideas to liven up your report?
Give me a call and let’s talk about how refreshing and engaging your visual elements, typography, photography and writing will make your investors, donors, employees and volunteers say “Wow, your annual report looks fantastic”!