Below The Surface
Facilitation Guide

This project involved designing a set of facilitation guide cards for Below The Surface, a versatile communication game designed for anyone looking to build stronger connections, but also an effective tool for workplace facilitation. The cards needed to be visually appealing while guiding users through structured exercises that encourage open dialogue, problem-solving, and team cohesion.
Understanding the Client’s Vision
The client’s goal was to create a tool that bridges the gap between casual conversation and meaningful discussion, particularly in settings where effective communication is critical. Below The Surface emphasizes taking conversations to deeper levels, whether in personal, professional, or facilitated group settings. My task was to design these cards to reflect the brand’s mission of promoting trust, honesty, and engagement while being functional and engaging.
Design Approach
The card design features bold navy and white tones, chosen for their clarity and alignment with the brand’s visual identity. Typography was carefully selected to ensure readability, allowing facilitators to quickly access the content in high-energy group settings. The structure of each card is simple yet impactful, guiding users through exercises that foster reflection, empathy, and stronger interpersonal connections. The layout was designed with busy facilitators in mind, with clear instructions that flow logically from one step to the next.
Practical and Functional Design
These cards are more than just instructional tools—they’re designed to enhance the user experience during team-building sessions and workshops. Whether used in corporate training, coaching environments, or community groups, the cards provide actionable guidance for leading deeper, more meaningful conversations. Each card in the deck is carefully crafted to balance structure and flexibility, making it adaptable for different facilitation styles and group dynamics.
Comprehensive Branding and Versatility
The branding remained consistent across the entire deck, with each element designed to reflect the values of the game: connection, exploration, and growth. The cards serve as a handheld guide for facilitators, helping them navigate group dynamics with ease while promoting deeper, authentic interactions. The versatility of the cards ensures that they’re not limited to professional settings—they’re equally effective in personal development groups, educational workshops, and beyond.
Client Feedback and Final Outcome
The client was delighted with how the facilitation guide cards aligned with the brand’s overall mission. The final product offers a practical yet visually appealing solution that supports both the casual player and the professional facilitator. The cards have proven to be an invaluable tool for sparking authentic conversations, enhancing team dynamics, and helping individuals and groups connect on a deeper level.
This project is a strong example of how thoughtful design can elevate a brand’s mission and deliver practical tools that create lasting impact in both personal and professional settings.
