OPERATION AJAX | Robot Sea Monster

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moving comics with integrated educational content for an immersive learning experience, allowing users to explore historical documents and newsreels within the narrative.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.

Key Features

Project Video

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.

Testimonials

I am writing to recommend Josh, an excellent team leader who has been with me on the road to the success of my project, Operation Ajax. Originally published on iPad, Operation Ajax redefined the standard for interactive animated comic books. Josh’s expertise and dedication have been invaluable both as a consultant during the initial development and many years later when we transitioned the project from mobile to web after the app went obsolete in 2016. When we went to rebuild Ajax for the web, Josh and his team developed a pipeline that facilitated a seamless transition while maintaining the quality of the original work as we migrated this precious project from Unity to a bespoke HTML 5 platform. I would heartily recommend Josh and his team for any interactive development project!