DNA Culture Handbook

Growth problems are the ones people typically prefer, but as Forest Hill expanded to six locations with their own set of staff, unity became an issue—of thought and of culture. Leadership wanted to set out to have a way for current and future hires to tap into the essence of Forest Hill's identity.

Developing the DNA notebook, "Our Culture", provided a resource to all staff to consistently reference the type of organization Forest Hill wants to be. Not wanting scale to cause staff to feel like "cogs in a wheel," they often used the term "Organized Organism". This became the guiding philosophy of the project, forming the content to feel like a peek into someone's sketchbook/notebook around the topics. Tons of white space, and 100 blank pages at the back encouraged it to be an interactive space to take notes and reflections.

The content was divided into three parts: Relational Rhythm, Intelligent Design, and Savvy Stewardship. Each of those parts was represented by a color, and a mixture of hand drawn illustrations and digital "cell" elements try to capture the feel of an organized organism. The result is a playful and thought-provoking journey that engages the user far more than your typical section of an employee handbook.

Below you can find selected spreads from the project.

Art Direction/Illustration/Layout Design: Jared Hanline

Cultural content developed by small team that included Jared.