Case Study

KVDB, led by Kirsty Van Den Bulk, was tasked with developing a customised Dissemination, Exploitation, and Communication Plan (DECP) to enhance project visibility, foster stakeholder engagement, and ensure consistent branding across all communication channels.

KVDB implemented a results-driven communication strategy based on a deep understanding of the audience, streamlined execution, and measurable objectives. To effectively manage messaging across various disciplines, key resources were created, including a Visual Brand Guide, monthly reporting tools, and stakeholder information packs.

1. Create a Recognisable and Unified Brand Identity
2. Define Core Messaging
3. Coordinate Multichannel Engagement
4. Support Stakeholder Needs
5. Implement Performance Tracking and Reporting
6. Develop Targeted Content for Key Audiences
7. Ensure Internal Communication Alignment
8. Leverage Visual and Multimedia Content
9. Optimise Digital Presence (Web, SEO, and Social)
10. Plan for Dissemination, Exploitation, and Sustainability

To successfully implement the Dissemination, Exploitation, and Communication activities for the OCEAN Project, KVDB developed a cohesive brand identity supported by a consistent messaging system. The key objectives include:

• Centralising project communications among the 14 project partners.
• Maintain brand consistency in design, tone, and delivery.
• Regularly report on all activities to ensure that key performance indicators (KPIs) are met and, where possible, exceeded by the project’s conclusion.
• Provide relevant and clear updates for key audiences.

KVDB structured content around marketing best practices to ensure clarity, consistency, and engagement across all touchpoints:

Strategic Messaging: Key messages aligned with project goals and stakeholder needs.
Content Planning: Editorial calendars, campaign themes, and content schedules.
Creative Production: Written, visual, and video content tailored to each channel.
Audience Targeting: Messaging tailored for specific groups, including policymakers, NGOs, and end-users.
Channel Distribution: Deployed through website, social media, email campaigns, and public events.

To maintain clarity, consistency, and measurable progress throughout the project, KVDB established robust performance tracking and governance tools that ensured messaging integrity and stakeholder alignment.

Communication Tracker: Custom-built by KVDB to align messaging with 67 deliverables across 11 work packages.
Performance Reports: Delivered monthly with comparative Year-on-Year analytics.
Content Accuracy Logs: To ensure cohesion across stakeholder materials.
Work Package Liaison: Coordinated updates from each lead to maintain consistency.

The Ocean Project significantly improved its visibility, stakeholder engagement, and communication consistency through KVDB’s strategic plan. The implementation of clear branding, targeted messaging, and thorough tracking resulted in widespread recognition and increased confidence among stakeholders.

Consistent Brand Identity

• Unified visuals, tone, and structure across all platforms.
• Enabled faster approval cycles and improved stakeholder alignment.

Targeted, Audience-First Messaging

• Addressed distinct stakeholder needs, including NGOs, shipowners, and regulators.
• Delivered through well-chosen platforms and formats.

Channel Agility and Refinement

• Responsive strategy adjustments based on platform performance.
• Shifted dissemination focus to high-impact channels like YouTube.

Continuous Review and Optimisation

• Regular updates based on KPIs and partner feedback.
• Maintained relevance of all materials throughout the project lifecycle.

Clear, Human Storytelling

• Simplified complex maritime safety concepts.
• Promoted stakeholder understanding and engagement.

KVDB’s unique combination of communication expertise and marketing insight clarified complex information, fostering lasting connections with maritime stakeholders. The success of the Dissemination, Exploitation, and Communication actions demonstrates the importance of strategic planning in science-led international projects.

KVDB spearheaded a comprehensive overhaul of The OCEAN Project’s website and social media presence to ensure the project’s message was not only seen but clearly understood. The new website was designed with a focus on improving user experience, simplifying navigation, increasing accessibility, and enhancing SEO performance.

This transformation was delivered in just five days with the expert support of Ocho.Works. Together, KVDB and Ocho.Works rebuilt the site to better reflect the scope, clarity, and impact of the project’s work.

Simultaneously, YouTube became a central hub for visual engagement, serving as a platform for sharing project videos, partner insights, and training materials, which significantly increased reach and improved audience retention.

Project Awareness: The project achieved strong recognition across partner organisations and external audiences, driven by targeted campaigns and unified messaging.

278% Growth: In organic social engagement in 18 months.

18 Organisations Adopted Training Media: With high average watch times on YouTube.

50% Year-on-Year Growth: Among maritime professional audiences.

+586K Media Reach: The campaign reached over half a million individuals, with detailed metrics tracking stakeholder engagement across all roles involved.

This rapid yet strategic digital transformation not only elevated the OCEAN Project’s online presence

From developing a unified brand identity to implementing performance-led dissemination, KVDB ensured every message aligned with project goals and audience needs. Through strategic content planning, channel optimisation, and robust tracking tools, the project gained visibility, credibility, and lasting stakeholder engagement.

KVDB’s contribution was instrumental in raising the profile of the OCEAN Project, strengthening its influence, and showcasing its real-world impact on maritime safety and environmental protection.

David P.

The Nautical Institute