Stop and think

A key expectation of us as a creative partner is to provoke and facilitate the free flow and exchange of ideas. Making time for thought and dialogue is part of this. With in-person meetings becoming increasingly rare, and work becoming ever more virtual it gets harder to step away from the desk and computer screen. The internet can be a source of inspiration – but nothing beats being out there in the world.

Anything seems possible with a computer. Computers connect us and help us to create what can only otherwise be imagined. But with everything happening behind a sheet of glass, computers also detach us from the physical world. It is no surprise that many designers still delight in print; having something tactile to show for their work. Pixar may create entirely digital worlds, but children still want toys to play with.

When designing our workspace, we made space for thinking and talking that is screen-free and positioned desks to ensure everyone has a view and an opportunity to daydream. While some colleagues only come into the office occasionally, we encourage them to think of their home working environment as bigger than their kitchen table. Stepping outside, even for a short while, makes for a happier and more productive team member.

We are in the business of solving problems. The first step is working out what questions we need ask and answer. After research and discussion the solution will present itself in an unexpected moment – whilst sitting in a traffic jam or talking about something completely different. The initial hard work is important, without all that conscious effort the subconscious has nothing to mull over; but so is time away from the problem.