A Strategic Marketing and Traffic Flow Solution at The University of Warwick

As construction continued throughout the building of the highly anticipated new STEM building at the University of Warwick, the surrounding hoarding was thoughtfully planned and executed. O’Brien Contractors Ltd worked with the University marketing teams to design the multi-phase project that not only offered security but also supported campus branding, marketing, and traffic management.

The Project

The project was spit into phases to meet the everchanging landscape of university life and the progress of the building project. The urgency and demand of activities on campus at different times of the year played a key role in changes over time.

The first phase of the project covered the barriers with printed hoarding graphics and was completed before the new academic term began in September. It covered a length of 91 meters and consisted of 74 printed panels. This phase focused primarily on improving vehicle flow and safety, especially at the entrance to the campus roads. The strategic placement of directional signage was key at this time of year because students and staff were returning to campus and the layout of some of the roads and walkways had changed. It wasn’t just new students finding their way, it was different for everyone, and the adjustment was important to highlight in order to guide traffic efficiently around the construction zone.

The second phase began shortly after, stretching 197 meters and covering a total of 162 printed graphics panels. This phase transitioned the focus to marketing and branding, enhancing the visual identity of the STEM construction building project. The printed graphics featured prominent branding for the building, as well as the campus’s 60th anniversary logo. This move to introduce both functional and aesthetic elements speaks to the careful planning of the phases and their different focus and needs.

The final phase covered the remaining sections of the barriers outlining the construction zone with printed hoarding – including redoing the graphics and marketing on the areas covered in the first two phases. This was a substantial undertaking of a very large space but it also meant it was an opportunity not to be missed by the University marketing team as they had a readymade space to use that stood out and also reflected the huge scope of the STEM building project more generally.

The project’s phased approach was designed to meet the changing needs of both practical and marketing objectives.

Looking Forward: Rebranding and Longevity

O’Brien was committed to ensuring that the hoarding served its purpose both during the construction phase and in the long term. The hoarding was designed to be up for the full length of the building work, ensuring that the construction site remained secure and visually appealing throughout the building process.

In addition to the size and sections, it’s important to note the longevity of the project’s marketing efforts. The branding elements reflected the evolution of the campus and the continued excitement surrounding the STEM building. This periodic rebranding kept the messaging fresh and relevant, ensuring that the importance of the project was consistently communicated to the campus community.

The strategic planning behind the STEM project’s hoarding reflects the broader goals for the University of Warwick – enhancing safety, managing traffic, and communicating the brand and it’s messaging on campus. The careful attention to detail in both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the hoarding ensured that the construction zone was both secure and an important focal point for the campus community.

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