Turning a Still Image Into an Interactive Experience: Sentient’s Community Engagement Tool

Sentient partnered with a Tier 1 mining organisation to help communicate the layout and intent of a proposed mine site to community and regulatory stakeholders. What began as a request for a single stylised still image evolved into a lightweight, browser-based interactive engagement tool, transforming static information into a dynamic and intuitive digital experience.

CHALLENGE:

The client needed a simple, easy-to-share visual to explain a large and complex mine layout to non-technical audiences. Traditional materials such as static diagrams, PDF maps, and dense reports often left community members uncertain about project activities, boundaries, and future site development.

The challenge was to improve clarity, build trust, and make technical content accessible without overwhelming the viewer.

SOLUTION:

Sentient expanded the original brief by reimagining the still image as an interactive, web-based communication tool.

Key features included:

• Browser-based Interactive Map: Viewers can explore key site areas, click information points for text-based details, and watch simple animations illustrating mining activities.
• Stylised 2D Design: An abstract, artistic approach optimised for fast load times, accessibility, and broad device compatibility, delivering clarity without needing a full 3D flythrough.
• Dual Output Delivery: A matching high-quality still image was provided for formal reporting, ensuring consistent visual branding across regulatory documents, presentations, and web content.

This approach blended style and function, turning regulatory communication into an engaging visual storytelling experience.

OUTCOME:

The final solution, a user-friendly engagement tool, delivered significantly more value than a traditional still image:

• Improved public understanding of the mine layout, purpose, and activity zones
• Greater transparency and trust through accessible, interactive storytelling
• Consistent cross-platform communication across reports, presentations, and online channels
• Higher engagement during community consultations and website interactions
• Cost-effective delivery, providing enhanced functionality within budget

By reframing the original request through an interactive lens, Sentient created a communication tool that deepened stakeholder understanding and demonstrated how visual interactivity and lightweight digital design can strengthen connections between industry and community.