The American Public Works Association

Public works touches nearly every part of life in the United States and Canada, but its scope can be hard to see at a glance. The American Public Works Association (APWA), which represents tens of thousands of professionals across North America, needed a way to show the scale and diversity of the field without overwhelming its audience.

We created an isometric infographic that brings the world of public works into focus. Instead of a traditional map or chart, we illustrated a detailed cityscape that includes urban, suburban, and rural environments. Within this unified scene, we depicted a wide range of services, from snowplows and water systems to engineers and emergency responders. Each element was designed to be both specific and familiar, so APWA members could see themselves in the work.

The isometric style made the graphic feel organized and approachable. Every detail reinforced the essential, everyday nature of public works while making space for the full breadth of APWA’s membership.

Results
The finished piece became a core communications asset. APWA has used it across print, digital, social, and event materials to show the value of public works clearly and concisely. It helps members feel seen and gives external audiences an immediate sense of the impact this profession has on their communities.