SRCA provided graphic design and illustration support to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Smart Grid and Cyber-physical Systems (CPS). The CPS office within NIST provides a monthly newsletter providing insights to technological advancements in mechanical automation, quantum networking, autonomous systems testbeds and human systems as they relate to a digital counterpart.

SRCA’s initial task was to design a practical, yet exciting banner graphic for the newsletter. This graphic had to represent a range of technologies while, at the same time, provide a sense of connectivity. As assignments evolved, NIST staff realized that there were few creative limitations when working with SRCA designers. As a result, several illustrations grew well beyond the initial ideas presented. Some illustrations presented narrative text and imagery explaining autonomous vehicles and the sharing of data across smart technology, while other tasks were provided to help better represent simple quantum mechanics and computing.