The KAARO network is a national teacher education development project funded by the Ministry of Education and Culture. Its aim is to improve assessment practices and teachers’ assessment competencies in both initial and continuing teacher education across Finland. The network has published dozens of educational videos and animations in collaboration with Unigrafia’s Creative Studio.
“We organise training sessions, seminars, and events, design online content, and conduct research. In other words, we facilitate national cooperation and are actively involved in making it happen,” explains Project Manager Marja Tamm. “The goal is to build a shared understanding of what should be taught about assessment.” The KAARO network includes the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, University of Eastern Finland, University of Lapland, University of Oulu and Åbo Akademi University. The network also collaborates with other projects, networks, and universities.
When KAARO needed video materials to support the development of assessment literacy, they turned to Unigrafia’s Creative Studio, based on recommendations from other project leaders. The first steps in the collaboration were taken at the end of 2018, and by early 2019 content production was already underway.
The visual and animated elements were built upon KAARO’s existing visual identity and colour palette. The aim was to create a vibrant yet recognisable whole – combining sound design, animation, video, and web-friendly illustrations.
“In our initial meetings, we reviewed references and discussed the ideology and philosophy behind the project. The client’s wishes and key considerations emerged quickly, so the concept design progressed smoothly,” recalls Lauri Manninen from Creative Studio. “KAARO’s visual identity was clear and cohesive, which made it easy to build new content on top of it.”
The collaboration got off to a smooth start, with meetings marked by an open and relaxed atmosphere. Even bold ideas could be shared freely, and the process was infused with positive energy. “It was wonderful to give creative professionals free rein at the beginning – it felt like the sky was the limit,” says KAARO project planner Lotta Avelin. “Lauri Manninen and Heikki Jantunen really understood our thinking and created a few alternative concepts, from which we shaped the one that suited us best. Making decisions was a joy because all the options were good.”
The first piece created was an intro animation embedded on the KAARO website. Manninen notes that animation is a slow process, so major decisions must be made early to avoid unnecessary work. “While working on the animation, we maintained an ongoing dialogue with the client, exchanging feedback on both sides. That helped our work immensely,” Manninen says appreciatively.
At the same time, the visual look for studio-shot videos was developed. The concept was co-designed with Unigrafia, but scripting the studio videos remains the responsibility of the KAARO network. “The experts write the scripts, we provide feedback and, when needed, prepare slide decks to accompany the videos,” explains Marja Tamm. “Once filming is complete, the video and slides are edited together according to our guidelines. Streamlining the process has made everyone’s work easier.”
In just over a year, more than 20 videos and animations have been produced. “It’s fantastic to work with such skilled people,” say Tamm and Avelin. “We completely trust the professionalism of Creative Studio – and they trust the feedback we provide. What’s more, we always have a great time and look forward to every meeting!”
Currently, Creative Studio is working on a project animation commissioned by the KAARO network, with preparations for videos for upcoming autumn training sessions already underway. Despite exceptional circumstances, Unigrafia’s Creative Studio continues its work. The studio remains available when needed – but during these unusual times, it might be worth considering whether your organisation’s communication needs could be better served through the colourful world of animation rather than traditional video content?
Watch an example of an animation we produced for the KAARO network: