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Case study

Developing a strategic membership publication 

Organisation type

Charity/third sector

Membership organisation

Sector

Health and social care

Service

Content development

Copywriting

Design

Marketing

Social media

Strategy

The brief

EACTS is the leading membership organisation for cardiothoracic surgeons, researchers and allied health professionals, with more than 4,000 members. As part of a wider communications strategy, Barley was asked to transform its quarterly member newsletter into a publication that would better engage members, showcase the organisation’s work and support strategic objectives including membership growth, education and global collaboration.

The goal was to create a publication that informed members while encouraging greater participation across EACTS’ programmes, events and initiatives. 

Insights and approach

Rather than treating the publication as a traditional organisational newsletter, we repositioned EACTS News as a strategic editorial platform.

Working closely with EACTS staff, committee members and clinical experts, we developed a content strategy that balances scientific credibility with engaging editorial storytelling. Each issue is built around themes that reflect the organisation’s priorities, from innovation and education to research, data and international collaboration.

Our editorial approach translates complex clinical and scientific developments into accessible, engaging content for a busy global audience. Expert perspectives, member stories, interviews and practical case studies sit alongside organisational updates, creating a publication that delivers value while reinforcing the benefits of EACTS membership.

The design was equally important. We introduced a clean, magazine-style layout with clear hierarchy, intuitive navigation and consistent branding, making it easier for readers to find relevant content while presenting EACTS as a modern, authoritative voice within cardiothoracic surgery.

By integrating clear calls to action throughout, the publication also supports wider communications activity, encouraging engagement with events, educational programmes, research initiatives and digital channels. 

Results

EACTS News has become one of the organisation’s most important member engagement channels, supporting both communications and organisational objectives.

The publication keeps members connected to the latest developments across education, research and clinical practice while strengthening awareness of EACTS’ wider programmes and initiatives. It has helped shift member communications from transactional updates to a richer editorial experience that encourages participation and reinforces the value of membership.

The publication also demonstrates how strategic content can support wider organisational goals, contributing to membership growth, increased participation in flagship events and programmes, as well as greater engagement with EACTS’ digital channels. In recognition of its impact, the publication was shortlisted in the Memcom Excellence Awards 2026 Best Publication category. 

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