opportunity
Founded in 1921, Council on Foreign Relations is an independent, non-partisan membership organization, think tank, and publisher.
With over 340,000 unique visitors monthly, CFR.org is a hub for the organization’s published work, original interactive media, and institutional information.

process
In August 2008, CFR debuted a new visual identity, created by Landor Associates, one of the world’s leading strategic brand consulting firms. Shortly thereafter, Objective Subject realized the comprehensive communication system across all physical and virtual applications.
After an intensive organization-wide audit of material uses and needs, Objective Subject refined brand guidelines to govern all platforms including printed publications, online material, and physical touch-points.

CFR has a diverse portfolio of publications that disseminate critical thinking on pertinent foreign-policy issues. We transformed their communications from low-quality, laser-printed stationery and print materials to one consistent suite of custom, on-brand collateral reflecting the quality of CFR’s work. All elements were produced with 100% post-consumer waste & FSC certified paper—all for less than previous printing costs.


solution
We worked closely with their in-house web development team to overhaul the design of the site to create a straight-forward, elegant, and on-brand digital experience.
The CFR guidelines are a living document that adapts to the ongoing needs of the brand. We are the gatekeepers of the brand and amend this document to adjust to evolving opportunities and requirements.