Case Study: NIH Loan Repayment Programs

Project Title: NIH Loan Repayment Programs – Communications Support

Client: NIH Loan Repayment Programs, http://www.lrp.nih.gov

Project Duration: December 2009 – April 2010

Ripple Effect Contact: Monika Ellis, mellis@rippleeffect.com

Challenge

The NIH Loan Repayment Programs (LRPs) encourage promising researchers and scientists to pursue research careers by repaying qualified student loan debt–up to $35,000 per year. The programs needed imagery and collateral materials that would instantly convey their benefits.

Solution

We started with a design for the programs’ flyer–an informational piece that introduces potential applicants to the programs. To highlight the programs main benefit, we developed the image of the woman using scissors to cut her educational debt. The imagery clearly illustrates that researchers may slice their educational debt in half by doing nonprofit research and applying to this program. Since completing the flyer, we have also used the imagery on LRP exhibits and social networking profiles.

Achievements

• Incorporates easy-to-understand imagery
• Highlights programs’ primary benefit
• Works in various media including print and electronic
• Allows program materials to standout in high-traffic environments
• Received Silver NIH Plain Language/Clear Communication Award