Drawing Insight: CEO Survey HighlightsDrawing Insight: CEO Survey Highlights
Best Use of Illustration
Category: Best Use of Illustration
Project Name: Drawing Insight: CEO Survey Highlights
Company: Message Lab @ Orchestra - SoftBank
SoftBank Investment Advisers’ 2024 Sōzō CEO Survey Highlights video transformed raw survey data into a dynamic, visually engaging narrative, helping startup CEOs and operators quickly grasp the trends shaping their world. Part of the Sōzō Insights program, the video distilled findings from SoftBank’s quarterly survey of hundreds of startup CEOs, covering macroeconomic conditions, funding environments, and operational challenges.
What set this installment apart was its use of custom illustration and animation to communicate, not just decorate. Every frame was designed to convey meaning, using visual metaphors to bring data to life. For example, a factory rebooting symbolized operational resurgence, while a clearing weather map suggested improving economic outlooks. The video’s structure reflected key survey findings, such as growing CEO confidence, increased hiring plans, and strategic optimism about AI’s potential.
An original soundtrack, composed specifically for the video, was synchronized with the animations to enhance the storytelling experience. The result was a two-minute, highly shareable format designed for social media and newsletters, making it easy to replay and embed.
By turning static data into a compelling visual experience, the video aligned with SoftBank’s positioning as a data-driven yet founder-friendly partner. It captured attention, communicated insights effectively, and reinforced the Sōzō Insights platform’s editorial motifs.
Why they're award winning:
Visual storytelling: Used custom illustrations and animation to transform data into an engaging narrative
Strategic design: Aligned with SoftBank’s brand and optimized for social media and newsletters
Emotional resonance: Personified data points to make insights tangible and memorable
Integrated experience: Combined visuals, metaphors, and music for a cohesive, impactful viewer journey