Heriot-Watt University Reaches Out with the PufferSphere
Heriot-Watt University (HWU) is a global institution, delivering high-impact, interdisciplinary research that translates into practical solutions for global industry and society.
From robotics and photonics to carbon capture and homelessness, Heriot-Watt’s research is focused on major global challenges and delivers results with direct impact on real-world problems. The Pufferfish display provided a way of showcasing that research to internal and external audiences that would excite, inspire and ignite discussion
Challenge
The university strives to engage diverse audiences in conversations around research and the societal challenges it seeks to address. To achieve this, it sought an interactive solution that could captivate audiences ranging from school pupils to research partners and stakeholders—balancing educational depth with engaging entertainment.
Solution
The PufferSphere has been used at external and internal events ensuring that the university’s vision and impact are communicated clearly and memorably. It added interest and context as part of the Dirleton Solar Walk, an event run by HWU as part of the Edinburgh Science Festival. It provided a showpiece for the launch event of HWU’s Health and Care Technologies Global Research Institution. It has provided inspiration for the school outreach team at a number of events with local and regional schools.
Future Plans
Self-Build Tools: Internal teams are empowered to create their own applications with the easy-to-use software platform, PufferBuild. This paves the way for custom application options tailored to the university’s research outputs and strategic priorities to create maximum impact.
Ready-Made Content: Heriot-Watt frequently employs Pufferfish’s OurClimate application to communicate global challenges around climate change, aligning with the university’s research in sustainability and achieving net zero and beyond.
Impact
The PufferSphere has transformed the way Heriot-Watt University engages with stakeholders:
Memorable Investor Engagement: By presenting research and impact in a visually striking format, the university leaves a strong impression on potential partners, stakeholder and funders.
Inspiring the Next Generation: School visits are elevated with an engaging, interactive experience that sparks curiosity in STEM subjects.
Reinforcing Reputation: The PufferSphere acts as a showpiece that reflects the university’s forward-thinking ethos and commitment to innovation.
