Case Study

How Interactive Storytelling Brought History to Life in 'Operation Ajax'

Project

Operation Ajax

Platforms

iOS (initially), Web

Technologies

Adobe Animate CC, Gnosis Engine, JavaScript, AWS, Google Analytics, Animate CC, Firebase Analytics

Project Overview

‘Operation Ajax’ is an interactive graphic novel that educates audiences about the 1953 CIA coup in Iran. This award-winning experience combines a cinematic reading experience with integrated educational content. Initially launched as a 210-page iPad app, the project expanded to a web-based platform to reach a broader audience.

Key Features

Interactive Format : Combines moving comics with integrated educational content for an immersive learning experience, allowing users to explore historical documents and newsreels within the narrative.
Intuitive Navigation : Easy-to-use chapter selection and navigation tools for seamless story exploration.
Cross-Platform Accessibility : Available on both iPad and web, expanding its reach and impact.
Custom Pipeline and CMS : Enabled efficient content creation and iteration, ensuring high quality.

The Solution

Custom Pipeline : Developed a custom pipeline using Adobe Animate CC, allowing animators to work in their preferred format.
Content Management System : Implemented a CMS for efficient content iteration and refinement.
Platform Optimization : Ensured the web version matched the quality and vision of the original iPad app.

The Results

Successful Platform Expansion : ‘Operation Ajax’ reached a wider audience through its web-based platform.
Award-Winning User Experience : Maintained the app’s original award-winning quality and user engagement across platforms.
Streamlined Creative Workflow : Empowered creatives to iterate and refine content efficiently using familiar tools.

The Challenge

Platform Transition : Seamlessly transition from iPad to web while preserving the app’s high-quality user experience.
User Experience Consistency : Address platform differences (aspect ratios, interactions) to ensure a consistent experience across devices.
Creative Workflow Integration : Enable creatives to work with familiar tools during content iteration and refinement.

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Project Video

Our Team

Portrait of Eric Lindstrom, Product Owner — Eric Lindstrom

Portrait of Gloria Santos, Director Of Operations — Gloria Santos

Portrait of Ryan Abrams, Solutions Architect — Ryan Abrams

Portrait of Tyler Jorgensen, Product Owner — Tyler Jorgensen

Portrait of Michael
Yuen, Technical Lead — Michael Yuen

Portrait of Owen
Ravelo, Technical Lead — Owen Ravelo

Portrait of Noel
Pelayo, Operations — Noel Pelayo

Portrait of Mohammed
AliKhan, Architect Owner — Mohammed AliKhan

Portrait of Nathaniel
Hart, Architect Owner — Nathaniel Hart

Portrait of Andrew
Koza, Developer — Andrew Koza

Portrait of Matt
Alexander, Creative Designer — Matt Alexander

Portrait of Stephen
Underwood, Developer — Stephen Underwood

Portrait of Jostein
Moreno, Project Manager — Jostein Moreno

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