Creating a scalable guidance system for heat pump implementation

Client

Zero Waste Scotland / Scottish Government

Sector

Public Sector / Sustainability / Built Environment

Overview

This project involved developing a technical guidance system to support the implementation of heat pumps across Scotland. Created for Zero Waste Scotland and the Scottish Government, the work needed to help users assess different heat pump types, understand their suitability, and navigate risk scoring in a clearer and more structured way.

The Challenge

The challenge was to communicate a large amount of technical guidance in a format that could support both understanding and practical decision-making. The content needed to compare multiple heat pump types and their associated risk assessments across different development contexts, while remaining clear, usable and consistent at scale.

The Approach

I developed a visual communication system that combined bespoke identity elements, illustrations and editorial structure with a more systematic production approach. The design reflected the client’s brand while creating a distinct and accessible visual language for the guidance itself.

To manage the complexity and repetition within the content, I used a data merge workflow to systemise the presentation of the different heat pump types and their risk scoring assessments. This created a more efficient and repeatable way of building the guidance, while ensuring consistency across all outputs and making the information easier to compare and navigate.

The Outcome

The result was a clearer and more scalable guidance system that helped translate technical assessment criteria into a more usable communication tool. By combining structured design thinking with a systematic production method, the project improved consistency, supported decision-making, and created a stronger framework for assessing and implementing heat pump solutions across a wide range of developments.