PLOS Open Science Initiative
PLOS has been a pioneer in the Open Access movement, as one of the first scientific publishers to make all its research freely available to the public. This founding ethos remains central to PLOS’ mission today. However, the landscape has shifted significantly since PLOS' inception, with many other publishers now offering Open Access options. Despite this, the nuances of Open Access—why it matters, how it works, and its long-term benefits—are often misunderstood. This campaign was built to show how PLOS stands apart in how its Open Access model empowers researchers, helping them build credibility, create more impactful work, and share their findings broadly for the benefit of the global scientific community.
Open Access to Open Science
PLOS transitioned from focusing solely on Open Access to embracing the broader concept of Open Science, reflecting its expanded mission beyond the traditional definition of Open Access. The organization is fostering a collaborative scientific community where research can be freely shared and built upon to drive progress. To effectively introduce and communicate the Open Science initiative, new visual elements were developed to represent the diverse components and goals that define PLOS' commitment to advancing this vision. As part of PLOS' Empowering Researchers initiative, a fresh visual identity was developed, evoking the sense of an ethereal, otherworldly landscape. This design featured human figures exploring expansive, uncharted territory, symbolizing the boundless possibilities and discovery inherent in scientific research.
Campaign Elements
Each component of PLOS' Open Science initiative was represented by distinct visual imagery designed to convey its purpose and significance. These visuals were consistently incorporated across various materials to ensure cohesion and engagement. Among these were infographics that illustrated PLOS' Open Science Indicators, providing data-driven insights into the impact of Open Science and its practical applications. This visual approach not only enhanced understanding but also reinforced the importance of Open Science in advancing research and collaboration.
