Redesign of the ‘Investigations’ Math Program
My Role
Design Manager, Creative Director
Scope
Full print + digital redesign
Notable
Originally designed a previous generation of this program
Introduction
Sophisticated redesign balancing innovation with a program’s established identity.
Investigations is a program I have a unique relationship with — I helped design an earlier generation of it before eventually leading its full redesign as Design Manager. That history gave me something most redesign projects don’t have: a deep understanding of what made the original work, and exactly what needed to change.
Problem Statement
The challenge wasn’t starting from scratch — it was something harder. Investigations had a loyal following of teachers who trusted the program deeply. The redesign had to feel meaningfully evolved without alienating the educators who’d built their classrooms around it. Every decision had to balance innovation with respect for what already worked.
The Team and Our Approach
Alongside my Designer, our collaborative approach involved:
Collaborative Leadership
Led the project with cross-functional teams, providing strategic guidance for seamless execution and high-quality results.
Art and Media Strategy
Developed a unified art and media strategy aligned with the program’s design goals.
Sophisticated Simplicity & Functional Visuals
Implemented a professional, clean design, using visuals to clearly communicate mathematical concepts.
Realistic Classroom Environments
Photo assets designed to reflect believable classroom settings.
Gaming UI Inspiration
Integrated gaming UI-inspired elements for an engaging visual learning experience.
Balanced Innovation
Combined new elements with successful features from the original program.
Design Goals
Innovative Design Strategies
- Sophisticated Aesthetic: Focused on a distinct yet appropriate design for elementary math education.
- Innovative Layouts and Elements: Explored innovative layouts and design elements to enhance engagement.
Outcomes and Impact
Throughout the project, I ensured that each phase aligned with our strategic objectives and upheld the highest quality standards.
Digital Platform Development
Developed an enhanced digital platform with integrated resources.
Brand Consistency
Ensured consistent, unified branding across all materials.
Intuitive Design Focus
Prioritized intuitive, engaging, user-centric design.
Cover Art Direction
Directed award-winning covers, enhancing visual appeal.
Conclusion
The redesign earned multiple book show awards — but the real measure of success was that it kept working for the teachers who relied on it. Balancing a fresh visual direction with the program’s established identity is the kind of design problem I find most interesting, and this project is one I’m genuinely proud of.