The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is the largest purchaser of health care services in Washington State. Through the programs it administers, like Apple Health and the School Employee Benefits Board, HCA purchases health care for more than two million people.

As Visual Communication Manager, part of my job is to unify and harmonize HCA’s brand across all of its web and print communication, covering more than a dozen different brands, hundreds of forms, and thousands of publications. Because external communications at HCA might be handled by any employee, it was important do develop branding and design guidance that was clear and comprehensive.

The Washington State Health Care Authority Design Standards [HCA 60-0004 (4/21)] describes not only the agency’s brand and visual presence, but also offers guidance on topics like translation, data visualization, and accessibility for people with disabilities. We believe it is the most comprehensive set of design standards in state service.

And it’s also a pretty fun read.

Role: Art director, designer, writer.