Devolution publication scoops silver in marketing awards
12 Jul 2016
An innovative publication that has put the University’s research and expertise at the heart of the Devolution debate has been recognised with a national award
On Devo – a collection of thoughts, ideas and analysis by our researchers on different aspects of regional devolution – scooped a silver award in the ‘BEST MARKETING INITIATIVE TO PROMOTE RESEARCH EXCELLENCE’ category of the Heist Awards, which recognise ‘truly extraordinary’ Higher Education marketing.
The publication, launched last year, was produced as a limited edition, personalised print version, and sent to 101 senior leaders, decision makers and influencers across Greater Manchester. Its release was timed to coincide with Tony Lloyd taking up the role of interim mayor and Commercial secretary to the Treasury Lord Jim O'Neill’s first Northern Powerhouse speech.
An accompanying social media campaign generated huge interest, with an electronic version of the publication being downloaded over 1,500 times within the first 24 hours of release - and 10,000 times in total. Extracts from the publication were extensively cited in an influential House of Commons Library briefing, which is available to MPs, Peers and their staff.
The judges commented: "On Devo was an innovative campaign to promote research expertise by putting The University of Manchester’s academic thoughts right at the heart of the debate on devolution." show less
The policy@manchester team in the Faculty of Humanities, who produced the publication with agency Copper Media, collected their award at a glittering ceremony at the Palace Hotel in Manchester, attended by 350 fellow communications and marketing professionals.