From dense thesis to a presentation ready to impress: the redesign of Mariana Andrade's PhD defence
Project
Mariana Andrade
Services
Art Direction, Presentation Design
When Mariana Andrade came to Matilde Digital, the deadline was tight, the content was dense and the pressure was real. In under a week we delivered a visually coherent presentation, with redesigned charts and tables, animations and a professional design ready to shine at the defence.
The challenge
A PhD defence is a one-off moment, and the presentation has to match the research behind it. Mariana had solid scientific content, but her slides weren't conveying the quality of the work they represented. The real challenge was turning complex data into clear visual communication without losing the rigour and seriousness the academic context demands.
Primary goals
- Make the presentation professional and visually coherent
- Improve the legibility and flow of the scientific charts and tables
- Keep the formal tone appropriate to an academic setting
Secondary goals
- Add animations to make the presentation more dynamic
- Improve the design of the images used in the thesis
- Make it easier for the audience to follow
The solution
After a direct conversation with Mariana to understand her expectations, we developed a bespoke project. The goal was clear: create a presentation that was rigorous and visually compelling at the same time. We studied the thesis content, got to grips with the visual language of the field, and built a coherent design system from start to finish.
Visual Design
A dark green colour system, a scientific palette, clean typography and a clear visual hierarchy
Data Redesign
Scientific charts and tables reworked for maximum clarity and visual impact
Animations
Transitions and animations designed to hold the audience's attention and bring out key points
3 Revisions Included
Direct feedback cycles with the client to guarantee full alignment with her expectations
✦ What set this project apart ✦
"Direct communication with the designer, a fast response, a personalised service and delivery in record time, without compromising on quality."
What Mariana said
"Thank you for the excellent service, for being willing to listen and understand what was expected, and for carrying that across so well and so quickly into the slides — including all the design, the improvements to images, charts and tables, and the animations."
Mariana Andrade — PhD candidate, UFABC
UPNDO
Amorim Top Series