Every year, the Independent Schools’ Bursars Association (ISBA) hosts a flagship conference that brings together leaders, suppliers, and key decision-makers across the education sector. For Datum, this annual event is more than just a date in the diary—it’s a collaborative, creative partnership that continues to evolve, inspire, and deliver.
For ISBA 2025 in Manchester, Datum once again had the privilege of delivering a suite of high-impact visual and experiential solutions that set the tone for the entire event. As longstanding creative partners to ISBA, we understand the importance of not only staying fresh but raising the bar each year.
A Brand-New Conference Identity
Each ISBA conference carries its own distinct identity. In 2025, with Manchester as the host city, our creative team set to work designing a brand-new logo that reflected the energy, innovation, and rich industrial heritage of the city. The ISBA Manchester 2025 logo is bold, dynamic, and versatile, capturing both the professionalism of the event and the unique character of the venue.
Logo design is more than just aesthetics—it’s the visual anchor for every touchpoint. From delegate passes to keynote screens, the ISBA 2025 identity guided a consistent and engaging experience for all attendees.
Signage That Moves and Guides
Wayfinding is a crucial component of any large-scale event. Datum created an integrated signage system that made navigation seamless for delegates across the venue. From welcome signage to directional panels, every design choice was intentional – combining clarity, legibility, and the overarching conference theme.
We also developed a series of large-format lightbox graphics that not only enhanced key corridors and communal areas but added a high-end visual layer to the environment. These illuminated designs provided visual cohesion and reinforced the conference branding throughout the space.
Immersive Digital Experiences
As digital solutions continue to play a larger role in event design, Datum led the delivery of interactive digital signage placed in the welcome foyer area. These screens displayed live updates, schedules, and welcome messages, offering a user-friendly digital touchpoint for attendees.
For keynote sessions and main stage presentations, we developed large-scale animated visuals that were displayed across multiscreen formats. These graphics were tailored to complement the speakers, themes, and session topics, helping to create a polished, professional experience that held audience attention.
Supporting Other Exhibitors: Lifebuild’s Fourth Year
Our involvement at ISBA extends beyond the core conference visuals. We also support attending exhibitors in creating impactful event presences. Lifebuild, a specialist in school construction and refurbishments, returned for their fourth consecutive year, and once again entrusted Datum with the design, production, and installation of their event stand.
From the initial concept to final installation, we managed every detail. The stand design was aligned with Lifebuild’s brand while ensuring it stood out in a competitive exhibition space. The result was a polished, engaging stand that drew visitors and started conversations.
A Full-Service Event Partnership
Datum’s support for ISBA 2025 is a reflection of our full-service approach – bringing together Creative, Print, and Digital under one roof. From initial ideas through to on-site delivery, we handle every aspect with precision and creativity.
Our ISO-certified processes ensure quality and sustainability across every deliverable, while our in-house team provides the agility and expertise needed to meet tight deadlines and last-minute adjustments.
Why It Matters
In the education sector, reputation and attention to detail matter. Events like ISBA are a prime opportunity for schools, bursars, and suppliers to connect. Datum’s role is to elevate those connections through considered design and seamless execution.
Visual storytelling is at the heart of what we do. It’s not just about making things look good—it’s about crafting narratives that resonate, clarify, and inspire action.
Let’s Work Together
Are you planning an event? Whether it’s a school open day, a sector-wide conference, or a branded exhibition stand, Datum can help you tell your story with clarity and impact.
