Published on
March 31, 2024

The design agency model is changing

The polite way of saying this intro is, how do agencies stay relevant into 2024?

Shaun Heath
Founder & Creative Director

The Reality of Traditional Agency Life:

I've been around the block in various agencies over the years, the model I've seen is in dire need of a shake-up. We enter the game with stars in our eyes, dreaming of big-name brands and groundbreaking projects. But reality hits hard. It's usually the old guard hogging all the exciting gigs and office politics that take us by surprise, leaving non-senior staff with the scraps. And let's be real, it's not just about the type of work younger staff are assigned—it's the lack of opportunities to shine that really grinds my gears.

The Shift in Client Expectations

Now, I'm not just here to whinge about the plight of what it's like to come up in an agency. It's about more than that. It's about accessibility, about clients waking up to the fact that they don't need to fork out an arm and a leg for a forgettable identity that'll be gathering dust in six months. And with AI breathing down our necks, marketing departments are wisening up. They're scrutinising every penny, making sure it's well-spent in the right places.

The design agency model might ready for a change, but there's hope yet. Embrace freelancers, mix up your teams, and focus on building ideas that truly resonate with today's audience.

The Case for Integrating Freelancers into Agency Dynamics

So, what's the deal for design agencies in all this? Well, first off, maybe it's time to shake things up a bit. Embrace the freelance life, inject some fresh blood into the mix, hiring a skill based range of freelancers may be the way to go, it's like finding the right tattoo, anyone in their right mind won't just nip down the local tattoo artist and ask them to mock up something they have no clue about, you'll get yourself on instagram and find the perfect artist, getting it right is super fucking important as it's going to last a lifetime.. Full-time staff can get comfy, but freelancers keep you on your toes.

Why Age Matters in Crafting Campaigns

Next up, let's talk diversity. Age ain't nothing but a number, right? (So we tell ourselves) But it can make all the difference when it comes to crafting killer campaigns. Younger minds bring fresh perspectives, bold ideas that pack a punch, it's our job as senior members of staff to direct them towards more realistic campaign options, yes I'm saying, if you're above senior level, it's time to let go of the reigns and embrace what an actual social audience has to say, because let's be honest, when was the last time you contributed to anything online?. Let's face it, in agencies where the old guard outnumber the rookies, it's tough to speak up.

And let's not forget about building ideas that resonate with today's audience. It's not just about speed or being the flashiest agency on the block. It's about connecting with people on a deeper level, understanding their needs, desires, and aspirations. That's where the real magic happens.

So, there you have it. The design agency model might ready for a change, but there's hope yet. Embrace freelancers, mix up your teams, and focus on building ideas that truly resonate with today's audience. It's time to adapt or get left behind.

Have A Project In Mind? Let's Work Together

The best way to get in touch with me is via Whatsapp, I can answer any early questions you have, or simply talk you though any issues you're facing, alternatively you can drop me an email.