UX Collective | Medium
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How design radically transformed a dying industry
A former architect named Jacek Utko became a newspaper art director, finding the publications boring and bland, which reflected in their low circulation. He recognized the need for transformation but wasn't sure how to achieve it. While attending a Cirque du Soleil performance, he experienced a creative spark, realizing he could transform his newspaper into something as captivating as performance art. Utko returned to Poland and partnered with newspaper executives to align radical redesigns with business goals. He strategically shifted from individual page layouts to viewing the entire newspaper as a cohesive composition. His redesign of Puls Biznesu won the award for the world's best-designed newspaper, leading to increased circulation and revenue. Utko's innovative infographics presented data as compelling stories, reigniting reader interest in newspapers. This design revolution demonstrated that strategic, user-focused design significantly enhances business performance and reader engagement. Utko's work consistently boosted circulation by up to 100% and increased advertising revenue by as much as 100% in various newspapers globally. Ultimately, Jacek Utko proved that design possesses transformative power, capable of revitalizing dying industries and inspiring innovation.