Liz Paulsen Executive Director of Marketing and Communications
Blackhawk Technical College 6004 S County Rd. G Janesville, WI 53546
December 17th, 2024
PRA is excited to provide this proposal to work with your team to implement selected portions of the Campus Appeals Study. During the design phase the team will need to align architectural, signage, and branding scope to the provided budget. It’s anticipated the effort will be primarily composed of signage and applied graphics. Focus will be on wayfinding. The level of architectural scope will be reviewed as the concept is applied. PRA proposes to team with Amplify Graphics and Branding. The firms have a long history of collaborating on environmental solutions.
Amplify offers extensive expertise in product knowledge, wayfinding and environmental branding services, and installation solutions. Our comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of your graphic needs—from initial concept through to the final installation—is handled with the utmost professionalism and attention to detail. With our deep understanding of environmental design and branding, we create impactful and cohesive visual solutions that enhance spaces and support your organizational goals.
OUR TEAM | Amplify and PRA have consistently demonstrated our ability to work seamlessly together, combining Amplify’s deep product knowledge and environmental branding skills with PRA’s innovative design and implementation strategies. Amplify is unique in that they also manufacture and install the graphic elements that are designed. They will be able to align scope and budget in real time. This synergy has led to a series of successful projects where our joint efforts have created impactful, cohesive visual solutions and enhanced the spaces we’ve worked on.
OUR APPROACH | We bring years of expertise, history, and a deep understanding of Blackhawk Technical College to this effort, but we approach it without any assumptions of entitlement or privilege. As we collaborate with BTC to develop a graphic approach for the next generation, we do so with the belief that students are at the heart of our work. Every graphic element, whether large or small, is designed to create a positive and lasting impact on the atmosphere and interaction with the environment.
OUR BELIEF | We believe in true partnerships, where collaboration leads to stronger outcomes. To deliver meaningful value to the communities we serve, we work closely with clients to understand the deeper needs and motivations behind every decision. The environmental graphics we create are a true collaboration. Together, we will develop visually inspiring wayfinding and branding solutions that reflect the unique character of the college, creating vibrant environments that enrich BTC for years to come.
Sincerely,
Mark Naber Amplify CEO
mark@amplify.com
Scott Justus, AIA Senior Project Manager
414.217.1587
sjustus@prarch.com 414.410.2945
Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools Lincoln High
1 FIRM PROFILES
Burlington Area School District
Karcher Middle School
AMPLIFY GRAPHICS & BRANDING
OUR PROMISE
At Amplify Graphics & Branding, we don’t want to be thought of as a vendor; we want to be considered your partner. We strive to offer exemplary customer service. Whether we are wrapping your truck or delivering 1000 business cards, we know all too well what it is like when your vendor doesn’t value your business.
FIRM HISTORY
Amplify graphics & branding is a leading-edge graphics technology company based in Milwaukee, with a rich history of innovation since 1977. Operating from a 10,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art production facility, we’ve successfully executed branding projects for clients across Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Oklahoma, Georgia, South Dakota, West Virginia, Minnesota, and beyond.
WE ARE BRANDING & WAYFINDING
We have a deep commitment at Amplify Graphics & Branding to exceed your expectations and earn your business. A preeminent environmental graphics resource, we have completed multi-phase projects for top institutions around the United States like: GE, University of Wisconsin, Kimberly Clark, Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Brewers, Rockwell Automation, American Family Insurance, and countless others. We are accredited by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) to provide training and education seminars to licensed architects on digitally printed wall covering technology and installation.
PROUD MEMBERS OF
BOSCOBEL AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
K-12 PROJECT EXPERIENCE WITH PLUNKETT RAYSICH ARCHITECTS
Environmental graphics
Wall coverings
Architectural glass printing
Dimensional lettering
Lit signage
Canvas gallery wraps
Grand format banners
Graphic panels
Vehicle wraps
Installation
PLUNKETT RAYSICH ARCHITECTS
OUR PROMISE
At Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP, we don’t merely design buildings; we create spaces for people, that inspire people.
OUR PASSION IS GREAT DESIGN
We take pride in bringing together physical elements with pure imagination to compose a facility brand that opens minds. We create spaces that invite people in and inspire all who occupy them. We believe practical can complement innovative. We know that environments are made for the people who use them, and we believe that our vision is matched only by our client’s aspirations. Great design is our passion – it’s what we bring to our clients every day.
FIRM HISTORY
Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP, was established in 1935 by founder Henry Plunkett. Through a series of acquisitions we are able to trace our roots back to 1890. Today, PRA is a multifaceted firm specializing in creating and re-imagining a variety of community environments.
PRA LEADERSHIP
The partner leaders at PRA are Kevin Broich, Michael Brush, Gregg Golden, Jedd Heap, John Holz, Devin Kack, Nicholas Kent, Steven Kieckhafer, Scott Kramer, Jason Puestow, Larry Schneider and Michael Sobczak.
STAFF EXPERTISE
Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP, is a full service architectural and interior design firm employing over 85 professionals.
LOCATIONS
Madison, WI 2310 Crossroads Drive Suite 2000 Madison, WI 53718
608.240.9900
Milwaukee, WI 209 South Water Street Milwaukee, WI 53204 414.359.3060
PROJECTS IN
Austin, TX
311 Canyon Wren Dr. Buda, TX 78610
512.649.5627
Sarasota, FL 1970 Main Street Suite 201 Sarasota, FL 34236 941.348.3618
FIRM EXCELLENCE
WHAT WE DO
EDUCATION
PLANNING
Site Planning/New Urbanism Design
Building Programming
Master Planning
Space Planning
Capacity Studies
Feasibility Studies
Facility Maintenance Studies
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
SENIOR LIVING
CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL
HEALTHCARE
RESIDENTIAL & FAMILY LIVING
CIVIC
HOSPITALITY & SPORTS
Technology Planning
LEED®/Sustainable Design and Planning
Visioning and Facility Branding
Facility Needs Assessment
Rapid Access Prototyping
INTERIOR DESIGN
Material and Color Selections
Furniture Selection and Procurement
Furniture and Finishes Standards
Lighting
Art and Accessory Selection
Exterior and Interior Signage
Environmental Graphics and Branding
Window Treatments
ARCHITECTURAL
Concept Development
Preliminary Design
Schematic Design
Construction Drawings and Specifications
Cost Control
Energy Conservation Analysis
Engineering Coordination
Building Information Modeling / 3D Modeling
Code Compliance Consultancy
CONSTRUCTION
Contractor Selection
Bidding Review
Construction Administration
Product Review
Schedule Tracking
Quality Assurance
Post Occupancy Evaluation
2 PROJECT TEAM
School District of Monroe Monroe High School
SCOTT JUSTUS PRA, PRINCIPAL | SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER
Scott brings nearly three decades of architectural and project management experience. As principal, Scott works collaboratively with the team, including all project engineers and consultants.
In this role, he will manage the project’s deliverables and project schedule, and respond to budget estimates at each project phase, from programming through installation.
MARK NABER AMPLIFY, CEO
Mark has been with Amplify for 25 years. Promoted to Vice President in 2011, Mark has been responsible for business development and strategic development for nearly 15 years. With a keen focus on innovation, Mark’s foresight is responsible for many equipment acquisitions and vendor relationships.
Mark will provide executive level oversight and resource allocation for the core team as well as commitment to the client.
RUSS BEDNAREK LEAD GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Russ has been working with Amplify for 10 years. Russ is a graduate of the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, and has worked in the advertising, graphic design and marketing industry for the last 16 years.
Russ’s role on a project involves understanding client needs, conducting research, and conceptualizing ideas. He creates initial drafts, focusing on layout, typography, and color. After presenting and receiving feedback, Russ revises and finalizes the design.
BRYANNA PISHION INTERIOR DESIGNER
Bryanna has worked closely to develop concepts for interior spaces, while coordinating the selection of finishes, furniture, and graphics. She has collaborated with Amplify on multiple school projects in Mauston, Sauk Prairie, Wisconsin Rapids, and Milton.
She is responsible for being the liaison between the architectural project and the graphics and branding and will help with brainstorming ideas. She will also develop project schedules, and ensure everyone has the resources needed to successfully complete the project.
LEE CONRADT GENERAL MANAGER/INSTALLATION COORDINATOR
Lee has been with Amplify for over 15 years. Lee has been the General Manager of the production facility since 2013. Lee has coordinated 100’s of successful project installations since 2013.
Lee’s will oversee the entire graphic project, handling logistics, site preparation, and the installation process, ensuring that all materials are delivered and installed according to the design plan. He will ensure a smooth execution from concept to final installation.
JESS SHAKE PROJECT MANAGER
Jess has been with Amplify for 2 years. She has 10 years Adobe Creative Suite and project management experience.
There role involves preparing artwork for print to ensure it meets production standards, creating graphic proofs for client approval, and conducting field verification to confirm that designs align with real-world conditions before final production and installation.
3 APPROACH
Hamilton School District
Silver Spring Intermediate School
OUR APPROACH
A successful graphic design approach involves understanding the client’s vision through initial discussions and research. The first step is to define the project scope, deliverables, timeline, and budget. To ensure a cohesive aesthetic between signage and branding, we will approach the building as a whole; while focusing on implementation of Phase 1. We will develop designs and attribute those designs to the budget to determine how many areas can be implemented with each installation mobilization. The final product will be high-quality and provided in the various formats developed in the design phase. After project completion, the team will follow up with the client for feedback and offer ongoing support. This structured process balances creativity with client collaboration.
EXPLORING OPTIONS
• Develop the Campus Appeals concepts for implementation
• BTC and PRA / Amplify design meetings to integrate align scope and intent
• Develop implementation plan
• Develop concept pricing
REFINE/FINALIZE DESIGN
• Finalize scope of work
• Final design approval by owner
• Final budget check
• Produce digital mock-ups focusing on overall layout, hierarchy and visual impact
• Deliver final design files for printing
ENSURING SUCCESS/ FINAL INSTILLATION
• Weekly project progress reports
• Sample transmittal and physical samples for approval
• Coordination with contractor on timeline
• Installation
• Post-project follow-up & ongoing support
4 PROGRAM ELEMENTS
MAP KEY
POINTS OF INTEREST
PRIMARY
SECONDARY
TERTIARY
MAIN
DEPARTMENT ENTRY
WALL COVERING
GLASS COVERING
CORRIDOR ART
CA - CORRIDER ART/BRANDING ELEMENTS
WC - DIGITAL WALL COVERING
GF - DIGITAL GLAZING FILM
RS - ROOM SIGNAGE
DE - DEPARTMENT ENTRYWAY
FI - FEATURE ITEM
WF - WAYFINDING SIGNAGE
POINTS OF INTEREST
PRIMARY
SECONDARY
TERTIARY
MAIN PATH OF TRAVEL
MAP KEY
DEPARTMENT ENTRY
WALL COVERING
GLASS COVERING
CORRIDOR ART
CA - CORRIDER ART/BRANDING ELEMENTS
WC - DIGITAL WALL COVERING
GF - DIGITAL GLAZING FILM
RS - ROOM SIGNAGE
DE - DEPARTMENT ENTRYWAY
FI - FEATURE ITEM
WF - WAYFINDING SIGNAGE
BLACKHAWK TECHNICAL COLLEGE
CA11
CA21
DE3
BLACKHAWK TECHNICAL COLLEGE
MAP KEY
POINTS OF INTEREST
PRIMARY
SECONDARY
TERTIARY
MAIN PATH OF TRAVEL
DEPARTMENT ENTRY
WALL COVERING
GLASS COVERING
CORRIDOR ART
CA - CORRIDER ART/BRANDING ELEMENTS
WC - DIGITAL WALL COVERING
GF - DIGITAL GLAZING FILM
RS - ROOM SIGNAGE
DE - DEPARTMENT ENTRYWAY
FI - FEATURE ITEM
WF - WAYFINDING SIGNAGE
Sauk Prairie School District
Sauk Prairie High School
5 CASE STUDIES
Madison Area Technical College Madison College Truax Campus
CASE STUDY - WEST SIDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
MAUSTON SCHOOL DISTRICT | Mauston, WI
SEEKING/VISIONING
During our collaborative sessions, we engaged the user groups through a series of interactive discussions and brainstorming workshops to define the graphic locations and refine the project scope. We began by walking through the buildings key community spaces, helping the client envision where the graphics could create the most impact. Together, we mapped out potential hightraffic areas that would draw attention to the city’s history and culture, while also aligning with the client’s vision of incorporating elements like popular book characters and healthy food imagery. Amplify and PRA provided visual mock-ups and location-based analysis, which allowed the client to visualize how the graphics would integrate into the specific environments. This back-and-forth process ensured that the final graphic placements would not only tell a story but also engage the community in a meaningful and visually appealing way. Through this collaborative approach, Amplify, PRA and the client were able to clearly define the project’s scope and goals.
History wall
Learning wall
Cafe Mural
Mauston Nature Image
CASE STUDY - WEST SIDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
MAUSTON
SCHOOL DISTRICT | Mauston, WI
EXPLORING OPTIONS
In our exploration of options for the project, we conducted workshops with the user group. During round one, we presented a range of conceptual designs to spark ideas and generate discussion. The goal was to inspire creative thinking and gather initial feedback. This open, collaborative session allowed the user group to express their thoughts, preferences, and suggestions. In round two, we applied the feedback gathered from the first round, refining the designs to better align with the group’s vision. We adjusted the visual elements and placement concepts based on their input, creating a more targeted and cohesive set of options. This iterative process helped ensure the designs resonated with the community and reflected their collective vision.
Round two
Round one
CASE STUDY - WEST SIDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
MAUSTON SCHOOL DISTRICT | Mauston, WI
REFINING DESIGN
During the refining design phase, we expanded on two designs that were particularly well-received during round two, incorporating more detailed elements to bring the concepts closer to completion. One of the key additions was the inclusion of ‘Welcome to Mauston’ text, where we explored various fonts to find one that conveyed both a welcoming tone and historical significance. The chosen fonts blended modern readability with a subtle vintage feel to reflect the town’s rich past.
We also integrated either a map of Mauston or a prominent historical image, depending on the design, to visually anchor the town’s heritage within the graphic. These elements were complemented by carefully crafted text, that would include interesting facts about Mauston’s history, further engaging viewers and enriching the narrative.
To enhance the overall aesthetic, we refined the color palette to evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia, using earth tones and muted colors that aligned with Mauston’s historical theme while maintaining visual appeal. This round allowed us to bring the client’s vision to life in a more polished and cohesive way, incorporating their feedback while staying true to the town’s identity.
CASE STUDY - WEST SIDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
MAUSTON SCHOOL DISTRICT | Mauston, WI
FINALIZE DESIGN
We finalized the design by refining several key elements that had evolved throughout the process. PRA and Amplify collaborated closely with the district to finalize the historical text about Mauston, ensuring accuracy and narrative flow. The text explored how Mauston got its name, offering a captivating story to draw in viewers while connecting them with the town’s rich heritage.
Additionally, we selected the final historical image for the design. The district carefully selected images that Amplify scanned to produce the high quality graphic. The background image that was selected was the first steel frame bridge in Mauston, symbolizing the town’s growth and resilience. To further enhance the design, we included four smaller images, each representing the progression of Mauston’s main street from each decade. These images gave viewers a visual timeline of the town’s development, offering a deeper connection to its history.
The combination of these elements created a cohesive and engaging narrative. The district, Amplify, and PRA worked together meticulously to ensure that each detail was historically accurate and visually impactful, resulting in a design that both celebrates and preserves Mauston’s legacy.
CASE STUDY - WEST SIDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
MAUSTON SCHOOL DISTRICT | Mauston, WI
ENSURING SUCCESS / FINAL INSTALLATION
To ensure the success of the final installation, we followed a meticulous process that involved several critical steps. First, shop drawings and strike-offs were produced, giving both PRA and the District an opportunity to review and approve all details before moving forward. This step ensured that the designs matched the original vision and adhered to all project specifications.
Once the designs were finalized, we coordinated closely with both the contractor and the District to plan the production and installation phases. Clear communication at every stage ensured that everyone was aligned on timelines, expectations, and logistics, preventing any delays or misunderstandings. As a result, the installation of the product went smoothly, with all elements being placed accurately and efficiently.
After installation, both Amplify and PRA conducted a thorough quality review, inspecting the final product to ensure it met the highest standards. Any issues, no matter how minor, were promptly addressed and fixed to guarantee a flawless result. This attention to detail in both the preparation and follow-up stages was key to the overall success of the project, ensuring a professional and polished installation.
Shop drawing approval
The process was clear and thoughtful, but even more impressive was the attention to detail. They immersed themselves into the culture of our district to ensure that our projects were a reflection of our greater community. The flexibility and sensitivity they demonstrated allowed us to have graphics and branding that carries throughout each of our buildings. When our stakeholders visit, I often hear about how our buildings represent Mauston. There could be no better compliment for a small town like ours.
Joel Heesch Superintendent, School District of Mauston
Final installation
6 PROJECT EXPERIENCE
Hamilton School District
Silver Spring Intermediate
WISCONSIN
WISCONSIN RAPIDS PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Wisconsin Rapids, W I
PRA and Amplify collaborated closely with the school district to create a cohesive design that celebrates the school’s history, community, and values. Together, they developed a comprehensive plan that integrates the school’s logo, historical elements, and community pride into key areas such as the lobby, learning stairs, and breakout spaces. By blending PRA’s expertise in environmental branding with Amplify’s innovative approach, they crafted a seamless visual narrative that fosters connection and inspiration for students and visitors alike.
In the lobby, an alumni wall was designed to feature a sepia-toned image of the original high school, accompanied by plaques highlighting notable graduates and their achievements, adding a sense of legacy and history to the space.
On the learning stairs, a historical image of Abraham Lincoln delivering one of his famous addresses was incorporated to connect with the school’s name. The image was carefully positioned to give the illusion that Lincoln is walking up the stairs with the students, symbolizing leadership and progress.
The breakout areas were branded with the names and maps of the surrounding neighborhoods and regions that feed into the school. Each area featured a map and the school logo, creating a strong visual connection between the school and its community.
Overall, this design ties the school’s identity to its historical roots and surrounding community, fostering pride and unity for students and staff alike.
WEST SIDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
MAUSTON SCHOOL DISTRICT | Mauston, WI
The school district’s vision for the graphics was to align with the architectural design, incorporating vibrant colors and dynamic shapes to inspire learning beyond the classroom. A key objective was to emphasize inclusivity, ensuring the building would be a source of pride for both the community and its students. The centerpiece graphic establishes a welcoming, home-like atmosphere for all students, while large-scale graphics and carefully chosen historic photographs celebrating Mauston’s rich heritage are integrated throughout, connecting students and community members to the city’s history.
In spaces like the Library Media Center, students are immersed in a colorful, inviting environment filled with playful shapes and a large graphic featuring familiar children’s book characters. The café features custom graphic wallcoverings that encourage healthy eating habits. A breakout classroom offers views of a Montessori playground made from natural materials, with a graphic of the local state park creating the perception that you are sitting on the dock.
Working on the History Wall as part of the renovations was a wonderful collaboration. PRA and Amplify helped to guide us in selecting pictures and images that told the 100 year story of Milton High School. Throughout the effort, we were able to find the best ways to tell our school’s story. The resulting mural has been very well received by the community and is one of the treasures in our new Commons.
The Milton High School History Wall is an engaging, visual timeline showcasing the rich history and accomplishments of the school over the decades. Through photos, text, and quotes, this wall will immerse visitors in the legacy of Milton High School, celebrating key events, milestones, and achievements. The final segment of the wall looked toward the future, featuring photos of current elementary students as a symbol of future generations. This future panel will be designed for easy updates and expansions, allowing the timeline to grow with the school community.
In addition to the history wall, the project will also include room signage and wayfinding across the campus, as well as the design and placement of athletics signs that commemorate school records, state titles, conference banners, and donor recognition.
Jeremy Bilhorn Milton High School Principal
Amplify Graphics and Branding takes pride in its long-standing partnership with the University of WisconsinMilwaukee, contributing to several impactful projects over the years. From crafting sleek wayfinding systems to custom room signage, we’ve enhanced the campus experience for students, faculty, and visitors alike. Our commitment to quality and innovation ensured that every sign met functional needs while aligning seamlessly with the university’s identity, creating a visually engaging environment.
Beyond functional signage, Amplify integrated striking branding elements throughout the campus, from bold graphics in high-traffic areas to custom installations showcasing UWM’s Panther pride. Each project, whether for a new building or updated facility, was approached with diligence and collaboration, bringing the university’s vision to life and amplifying the spirit of its vibrant community.
L.B. CLARKE MIDDLE SCHOOL
TWO RIVERS PUBLIC SCHOOLS | Two Rivers, W I
Amplify worked closely with the district at every stage of the project to ensure that the wayfinding and signage package for L.B. Clarke Middle School met their functional, aesthetic, and financial needs. Starting with an in-depth consultation, Amplify helped the district select the most suitable materials and products for each sign, balancing durability, design, and budget constraints. After determining the right solutions, they provided detailed shop drawings for the district’s approval, allowing stakeholders to review the specifications and ensure every detail aligned with the school’s vision. Once the designs were finalized, Amplify moved into production, creating high-quality signage that integrated the school’s colors and logo throughout. The final package included comprehensive floor plans that clearly indicated the location of each sign, making installation smooth and ensuring that the wayfinding system was intuitive and cohesive from room signage to overhead wayfinding and code signs.
7 REFERENCES
Wauwatosa School District
Underwood Elementary School
REFERENCES
School District of Mauston Joel Heesch – Superintendent jheesch@maustonschools.org (608)847-5451
Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools
Ronald Rasmussen - Superintendent ronald.rasmussen@wrps.net 715-424-6701x1
School District of Milton
Jeremy Bilhorn – High School Principal bilhornj@milton.k12.wi.us (608)868-9300
Sauk Prairie School District
Chad Harnisch – High School Principal chad.harnisch@saukprairieschools.org (608)643-5620
School District of Wisconsin Dells
Terry Slack – District Administrator tslack@sdwd.k12.wi.us (608)254-7769 ext. 6026
Racine Unified School District
Peter Reynolds – COO peter.reynolds@rusd.org (262)619-4663
Burlington Area School District
Karcher Middle School
8 PROJECT TIMELINE
School District of Milton Milton High School
PROJECT TIMELINE & MILESTONES
WINTER SPRING SUMMER PHASE 2
EXPLORING OPTIONS
• Develop the Campus Appeals concepts for implementation
• BTC and PRA / Amplify design meetings to integrate align scope and intent
• Develop implementation plan
• Develop concept pricing
REFINE/FINALIZE DESIGN
• Finalize scope of work
• Final design approval by owner
• Final budget check
• Produce digital mock-ups focusing on overall layout, hierarchy and visual impact
• Deliver final design files for printing
ENSURING SUCCESS /FINAL INSTALLATION
• Weekly project progress reports
• Sample transmittal and physical samples for approval
• Coordination with contractor on timeline
• Installation
• Post-project follow-up & ongoing support
BEGIN PHASE 2
CONTINUOUS ENGAGEMENT WITH STAKEHOLDERS
Waterford Graded School District Fox River Middle School
BLACKHAWK TECHNICAL COLLEGE FEE PROPOSAL
December 17th, 2024
Fee Qualifications:
• Design, Production, and Installation are included in Amplify costs.
• Fees will vary by scope and will be aligned throughout the design process.
• Focusing on Wayfinding and Branding, architectural features, i.e., soffits, bulkheads, glazing, etc., are not included in this proposal and can be added through the design process.
Area A
Amplify $90,000 - $150,000
Area B (Upper Level)
Amplify $70,000 - $130,000
PRA
$10,000
Fee is inclusive of usual and customary reimbursable expenses such as travel, progress printing of documents and other associated administrative costs.
* This fee is an estimate based on the size and scope of similar projects. We can further refine the fee as we finalize the specifics of the project following our kick-off meeting.
