Bridging Policy and Public Engagement Through Custom Publishing
At Washingtonian Custom Media, we believe that powerful storytelling and expert design are essential for organizations seeking to shape conversations around complex topics.
When the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP)—a DC-based non-profit initiative dedicated to advancing America’s competitiveness in emerging technologies—approached us, they had a clear vision: to create a magazine that would translate their high-level policy research into compelling, accessible content for a broad audience.
The Challenge: Making AI Expertise Approachable
SCSP’s mission is to convene and amplify the voices of leaders in technology and policy. Their goal for this project was twofold: to highlight their authority in the field of artificial intelligence and to humanize the individuals driving innovation. The magazine needed to balance technical rigor with a reader-friendly narrative, ensuring that both industry insiders and the general public could engage with the content.
Our Solution: Strategic Editorial and Design Excellence
WCM partnered closely with SCSP to develop AIToday, a publication that exemplifies the synergy between subject-matter expertise and creative communication. Our comprehensive approach included:
- Editorial Planning & Original Content Development: We crafted a diverse editorial lineup, including in-depth Q&As, feature stories, and listicles that spotlighted thought leaders and contextualized AI’s impact on society.
- Technical & Substantive Editing: Our editorial team ensured that complex concepts were distilled into clear, accurate, and engaging narratives.
- Design & Art Direction: The magazine’s visual identity was meticulously developed to reflect both innovation and approachability. Our designers selected a modern, code-inspired sans-serif typeface and a color palette aligned with SCSP’s brand, while the electrifying cover—featuring the Washington Monument—symbolized the intersection of technology and national identity.
- Project Management: From concept to print and digital delivery, our team orchestrated every phase, ensuring seamless collaboration and timely execution.
Impact: A Platform for Leadership and Connection
AIToday not only positions SCSP as a thought leader at the intersection of policy and technology, but also serves as a model for how organizations can use custom publishing to drive engagement and influence. By blending rigorous analysis with personal storytelling and striking visuals, we helped SCSP reach new audiences and spark meaningful conversations about the future of AI.
At WCM, we’re passionate about helping mission-driven organizations communicate their vision with clarity, creativity, and impact. Explore more of our work at washingtoniancustommedia.com.