Good case studies build trust. Hearing and reading a story in someone’s own words is incredibly powerful. The way people tell their stories, the turn of phrase is relatable and understandable.

People have evolved to rely on others – we like (on the most part) to be social and work in groups. Making something social is an evidence-based behaviour change technique – people are more likely to do an action if they see people like them doing that action. It normalises the thing you want people to do (or even can make people feel left out if they don't do it), can help people feel like the goal is realistic and achievable (if they did it, I can do it too!), and makes people trust the process and outcome.

It’s all about showing, not telling. Yes, we can tell you all about the impact of planting trees, of installing renewable energy, of visiting an exhibition, but case studies show that impact, the effect that it has on people and communities.

People trust people

In this age of AI, everything can feel a bit too perfect, too polished, too automated. That’s where case studies can cut through. Real, authentic stories, with the good and the bad included. Because come on, we do kind of like hearing about what went wrong… and how it was fixed!

This need for authenticity is particularly important in the sustainability, education, charity, and health sectors. Sectors where trust is key. In short, the more human your stories are, the more believable they become.

Read – or watch – all about it

When it comes to the written case study, these are great for when you want to go into depth, explain backgrounds, situations, opportunities, challenges, impacts, facts and figures. You really do get the full story.

But it’s not always about reading reams of copy. (How many times have we heard that people don’t read anymore? Fun fact – they do, but what they’re reading has changed.) Written case studies are skimmable too, with pull quotes, infographics and bulleted highlights. And a well-written case study is an absolute goldmine for content. They’re brilliant source material for all your other outputs – social media posts, newsletters, presentations, podcasts, PR, fundraising , the list goes on…

Over to filmed case studies. Who doesn’t love a good film? These bring case studies to life in a completely different way. You can see and hear the person, their expressions, tone, emotions. You can really connect with who you see. And it doesn’t have to be an all-singing, all-dancing production (although you’ll always get something professional from us!), as people respond well to authenticity. We can even help you to create your own filmed case studies – giving you the skills and confidence to film your own stories.

As with the written versions, these films can be used – in their entirety or edited to short snippets – for social media, events, websites and so on.

When it comes to choosing what you need, it’s often best to do both. Write it up and capture it on film. Each format supports different stages and objectives of your marketing and communications.
 

Real stories for real outcomes

Trying to inspire behaviour change or action? Show what others have done and the benefits they’ve experienced. Looking to grow your reputation? Share stories that demonstrate your values and successes. Need to attract new business or new funding? Show what you’ve already achieved and the impact you’ve already had. Running an internal comms campaign? Celebrate successes and highlight what’s going on across your organisation.

In short, whether you’re trying to win hearts, change minds, or inspire action, case studies give people the proof they need to believe in you.

As for us?

We’ve worked on case studies for over twenty years. From tree planting, placemaking and sustainability, to fostering children, dealing with grief and sharing stories of hospice care. We approach every person and every story with curiosity, respect and compassion.

We love hearing stories. We love telling stories.

Bringing your work to life

It’s a noisy old world we live in. Brands, causes, organisations, businesses are all competing for our attention, our time, our trust. Real people with real stories make us sit up and take notice. They show who you are, what you do, and what it all means to the people you work with.

And it doesn’t have to be complicated. We’re here to help gather the stories, write them up, film them… and then we help you plan where and when to use all of that lovely new content.

If you’ve got stories to share, and need some extra support with them get in touch to arrange a call.