Bisecting Brochures for ETH Zurich

ETH offers a whole host of degree programs. From architecture to medicine, prospective students can choose between 25 different programs. Introducing this wealth of courses in a brochure, however, can feel a bit like getting tested in experimental mathematics. We did it anyway.

Short, crisp and clear

Okay, “short” may seem like an exaggeration, seeing as the new brochure turned out 60 pages long. What you really ought to know: the old version had over 100 pages. We consolidated, streamlined, shortened and structured like crazy for a result that is much clearer and makes it quite a bit easier for readers to compare the courses.

Tease me away

In the digital age, you don't really get to “attract” young readers: you just meet them wherever they’re already headed. Therefore, the new brochure had to work with the information provided on the ETH website. We placed content teasers in the brochure, with QR-codes linking to more in-depth information on the website. 

Fewer mistakes, faster updates

The previous, longer version of the brochure included complex graphics which made parallel updating (online and in the printed version) a time-consuming process. We simplified the graphic elements and shortened content so that updates are no longer a problem.

Interactive, accessible, inviting

The digital brochure is a single-page, interactive PDF with links to more in-depth content on the website. In the editorial section, we placed facts and figures about the university next to compelling illustrations. In the second part, all bachelor's and master's degree programs are presented and made more approachable with short student testimonials. The image concept for the testimonials was part of the new visual language we developed for the brochure. While we quite like it on the Retina display, we are looking forward to holding the printed brochure in our hands next year.