Creating a Visually Compelling Report
to Advocate for Animal Welfare Policy

Client Background

Animal Policy International (API) is dedicated to improving animal welfare standards through policy advocacy. In collaboration with Violet Studios, API aimed to publish a research report titled "Closing the Welfare Gap: Why New Zealand Must Apply Its Animal Protection Standards to Imports." The report highlights discrepancies between New Zealand’s high welfare standards for farmed animals and the lower standards of imported animal products, advocating for legislative change.

The Challenge

API needed a high-impact, visually engaging report that would effectively communicate complex data and policy recommendations to legislators, stakeholders, and the public. The report had to strike a balance between informing without overwhelming—presenting the stark realities of animal welfare concerns without being too graphic for the audience. Additionally, the data-heavy content needed to be accessible, visually cohesive, and persuasive to influence policy discussions.

How I Solved the Problem

Through my research report design expertise, I ensured the report was both compelling and easy to digest:

Strategic data visualization: I transformed complex statistics into clear, digestible charts and graphs, maintaining consistency throughout the document.
Balanced imagery: I carefully selected photos that conveyed the reality of animal welfare concerns while remaining appropriate for a policy-focused audience.
Visual storytelling: By aligning the report’s design with the compelling narrative, I helped reinforce API’s key messages.
Legislative impact focus: Every visual and layout choice was made with the final audience in mind—policy makers who needed a clear, persuasive document.

The Results

A polished, professional report that resonated with legislators, increasing the likelihood of policy discussions.
Data presented in an intuitive, accessible format, making complex findings easier to grasp.
Stronger advocacy impact through cohesive design that reinforced API’s message.
Increased reader engagement by ensuring the report was visually compelling and easy to navigate.

“Leanne’s designs are very thorough and flexible. There’s no more fuss trying to ensure our materials are consistent—it’s just done. Having that structure saves so much time and reduces the friction between having an idea and getting it out into the world.”

—Kate Rodman, Creative Director, Violet Studios