What is systems-thinking, anyway?
With constant technological advancements and increasing global interconnectedness, the world is rapidly becoming more and more complex. Systems-thinking is a way of making sense of this complexity in order to solve problems from a perspective that addresses the root of the problem and the factors that allow or support the persistence of these problems. Systems-thinking is about seeing the forest and the trees.
Okay got it, but what does that have to do with communication design?
The purpose of all design is to solve a problem. In this sense, the purpose of communication design is essentially to solve a communication problem. As experts in the communication field working intimately in the social sector, we understand that the work we do (and the work you do) does not exist in a vacuum. We know that effective communication can make or break an organization’s impact. As your creative partner, we are committed to your greatest impact by examining the larger ecosystem, confronting barriers of communication, and strategizing for clear understanding of your message. Our formula for impact includes: asking the right questions, making connections, and empowering communities.
OUR 8-FOLD PROCESS FOR STRATEGIC VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN
OUR 8-FOLD PROCESS FOR STRATEGIC VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN
1
DISCOVERY
Before diving in we ensure clear understanding of the critical issues at play and the landscape and system that these issues exist within. We listen carefully, ask the right questions (and to the right people), collecting and observing information and data. We understand that your organization understands your issue area best so we partner with you as informed but curious visitors, ready to listen and learn before offering our gifts.
2
THEORY
Observations and insights collected in the discovery phase are turned into opportunities based in theory that is informed by a deep understanding of the issue at hand, the system that it exists within, and design theory.
3
STRATEGY
We bring together creative thinkers from a range of backgrounds to assess the information and theories at hand and turn them into a thorough blueprint for creative strategy, communication strategy, and theory of change.
4
FORMATION
Depending on the project, we form tailored teams for each project that balance skills and perspectives, and engage professionals immersed in the issue area at hand. Our designers, artists and technologists tackle the project in a collaborative digital environment under focused leadership and supervision.
5
CREATION
With the strategy in place, the project is divided and conquered by our creative and digital teams under focused and expert supervision, review, and quality control.
6
IMPLEMENTATION
Our work is not over when the creative materials are finalized. We continue to support the project through completion by cooperating with developers, printers, etc. to bring designs to life smoothly and as intended.
7
EVALUATION
Unlike a scientific lab, the world we live in is uncontrolled and unpredictable. Therefore, any action plan put in place to solve a problem needs to be reassessed and reevaluated throughout to ensure that things are moving accordingly and to pivot if necessary. Our research and evaluation partners help us make sure that our work is on target for impact.
8
REFLECTION
We complete each project with reflection where we integrate lessons learned from the process, taking that knowledge and wisdom forward for future projects, and sharing that wisdom so that others can create with impact too.