Behind The Design
BEYOND REALITY (12/24) Our latest publication "Beyond Reality - Visual Design in the Age of AI" is out now, available on Amazon. Get it here
ABSTRACTION (11/24) Abstraction is a window to imagination. It sparks curiosity, interrupts our usual ways of thinking, and energizes our creative muscles. That’s why I’m drawn to art that leans into abstraction. Just ask a child what they see in a Jackson Pollock painting, and you’ll be amazed by their perspective. Our culture, so deeply influenced by Hollywood and Disney’s ‘realistic’ visuals, has almost lost its sense of awe and wonder—qualities that only an abstract piece of art can truly evoke.
CULTURE (10/24) I recently added 'Culture Consultant' to my job titles. Looking around at the rather uninspiring, monochrome AI landscape—and the widespread lack of cultural understanding, both past and present—I’m struck by how much richness is being overlooked. There's immense value in understanding movements like Renaissance art or Postmodernism, to name a few, yet many younger designers seem unaware of this depth. Creativity thrives on curiosity and a broad cultural awareness. The world is so much larger than just Dungeons & Dragons. Time to put on your wings.
FASHION (10/24) What started as a small experiment in creating visuals has now morphed into a complete new design category for us—fashion prints. With AI as our new creative partner, we’re no longer limited to just logos and graphics; we’ve stepped into the world of textiles and sportswear.
It’s incredible how AI allows us to art direct and create stunning patterns almost endlessly. From intricate 19th-century engravings to the bold, rebellious styles of 70s punk, the possibilities are endless. Imagine a vibrant Art Nouveau-inspired fabric that could be turned into a couture gown or a series of retro graphics reimagined as edgy streetwear.
Each print we generate opens up new avenues, adding fresh dimensions to our design language. The results? Often surprising, always stunning. This blend of technology and creativity has given birth to a unique visual style—something that’s not just a print but a statement.
We’re excited to see where it goes next. Because with AI, the story is only beginning.
ON DESIGN (09/24) Why what we do in Branding and Design matters. I’m quoting Brian Collins: "For startups, it’s mostly about good trouble. They are seeking the right product/market fit to position themselves for funding rounds or an IPO. For legacy companies, however, the stakes can be existential. Sales have slowed. A new technology threatens to put them out of business. A customer base has shifted. There is an urgency to articulate a vision that resonates not only with their customers, but also brings renewed clarity of purpose to the company itself."
ON DESIGN (08/24) "I feel like I'm gradually moving away from what branding has become in recent years—faceless, mediocre, and distorted by self-proclaimed strategists and data-experts, while visionary design has been pushed to the sidelines. Branding to me has always been about finding an authentic message and creating stunning visuals that get people interested in a brand. Anything less than that doesn't interest me." - Marc Posch
FOR SALE You can now purchase a wide selection of my AI graphics at YouWorkForThem (YWFT): https://www.youworkforthem.com/designer/1989/marc-posch
ON DESIGN (07/24) According to the second law of thermodynamics, things fall apart. Structures disintegrate. Buckminster Fuller hinted at a reason we are here: By creating things, by thinking up new combinations, we counteract this flow of entropy. We make new structures, new wholeness, so the universe comes out even. (Annie Dillard)
Branding is not about applying a fresh coat of paint; branding is about transformation, about uncovering structural issues that may stand in the way of innovation and growth.
NEW REALITY (06/24) The deeper I get into Generative AI, the more I discover the endless possibilities of innovative design, the new vocabulary of creativity. Especially for those who are willing to dive into uncharted territory, leaving Manga and Disney clones behind, stepping out of comfort zones and creating their own visual language, a new era is opening up. The journey has just started. Watch out.
We don't design for our clients, but for our clients' customers. It doesn't matter if you like blue or red. If research tells us that your customers like polka dots I suggest to go with polka dots.
AI-DRIVEN DESIGN VS TRADITIONAL DESIGN PRODUCTS (07/24) We see more and more clients warming up to the idea of using AI driven design products for their marketing. Still, questions come up about effectiveness and usability. Here's comparison chart:
THREE QUESTIONS (06/24) Branding is actually a simple exercise. It always comes down to three questions:
- Who are you?
- What do you do?
- Why does it matter?
Sounds easy, right? Now, try to find the answers. My job is to use these three questions as starting points for a conversation about a business and its objectives. It's the challenging part, almost like a therapist looking into your soul and navigating through tough biases and misconceptions. And just like in therapy, the result should deliver clarity. That's what matters. Clarity is the basis for everything in marketing.
- What do you do?
- Why does it matter?
Sounds easy, right? Now, try to find the answers. My job is to use these three questions as starting points for a conversation about a business and its objectives. It's the challenging part, almost like a therapist looking into your soul and navigating through tough biases and misconceptions. And just like in therapy, the result should deliver clarity. That's what matters. Clarity is the basis for everything in marketing.
It’s not my intention to educate my clients, as that implies I know better, which I don't believe I do. I simply aim to provide them with new ideas that foster innovation, rather than explaining how marketing or branding works. Our clients are not stupid.
KEY PILLARS OF A CREATIVE MIND (5/24)
Imagination, Inventiveness: It takes guts to invent the Next Big Thing
Creative people’s imagination knows no limits. It’s a the core of what they do. They constantly invent things. They are not afraid to question the status quo. Creating is their passion, and creativity manifests itself in many aspects of everyday life. Creative people can stand out in the crowd. They are a source of fresh and unusual ideas.
Imagination, Inventiveness: It takes guts to invent the Next Big Thing
Creative people’s imagination knows no limits. It’s a the core of what they do. They constantly invent things. They are not afraid to question the status quo. Creating is their passion, and creativity manifests itself in many aspects of everyday life. Creative people can stand out in the crowd. They are a source of fresh and unusual ideas.
Curiosity: The willingness to explore and learn
Curiosity is one of the traits that have had a huge impact on the shape of our civilization. Searching for answers to intriguing questions, in-depth knowledge of a subject, interest in the surrounding world are the characteristics of people who value curiosity.
People driven by curiosity are on the right track to achieve wisdom. They are not afraid to ask questions. A strong passion is often present in their lives.
Curiosity is one of the traits that have had a huge impact on the shape of our civilization. Searching for answers to intriguing questions, in-depth knowledge of a subject, interest in the surrounding world are the characteristics of people who value curiosity.
People driven by curiosity are on the right track to achieve wisdom. They are not afraid to ask questions. A strong passion is often present in their lives.
Challenge: Always questioning and testing your own abilities
Taking up challenges is often the result of a strong need to test yourself. These are activities that require us to leave our comfort zone and face something new and unknown. They awaken our imagination and shape our character. Challenges reveal our hidden potential. Taking them allows us to get to know ourselves better.
Authenticity: This is where we find ourselves
Authentic people do not have to prove anything to others. They are themselves in every situation. When asked for their opinion, they will give an honest answer, even if their opinion is not popular. They do not find themselves in an environment where lying or lack of honesty often occurs. People who value authenticity generally have no problems with self-acceptance.
Taking up challenges is often the result of a strong need to test yourself. These are activities that require us to leave our comfort zone and face something new and unknown. They awaken our imagination and shape our character. Challenges reveal our hidden potential. Taking them allows us to get to know ourselves better.
Authenticity: This is where we find ourselves
Authentic people do not have to prove anything to others. They are themselves in every situation. When asked for their opinion, they will give an honest answer, even if their opinion is not popular. They do not find themselves in an environment where lying or lack of honesty often occurs. People who value authenticity generally have no problems with self-acceptance.
DESIGNRUSH (04/24) Designrush, a B2B marketplace, just listed us as a leading California Design Company and California Branding Company. Thank you. So proud.
LEADERSHIP (04/24) If there is one thing I learned in my 20+ career as a creative director is that clients don't come to us for creative work in the first place. They want us to lead a process that reveals the unique outcome they came for. Interested? Contact me
PUNK = INNOVATION (03/24) Punk is more than just a genre of music; it is a testament to the power of rebellion and defiance. Born out of the tumultuous social and political landscape of the 1970s, Punk emerged as a force to be reckoned with – a symbol of resistance to oppression and a beacon of hope for the disenfranchised. Its enduring legacy serves as a reminder that it takes a rebellion to foster innovation – that it is only by challenging the status quo that we can truly push the boundaries of what is possible. As we navigate an uncertain future, let us look to the spirit of Punk as a source of inspiration and a reminder that in defiance lies the seeds of progress.
THIS IS WHAT A GOOD DESIGNER DOES (02/24) The magic word here is "Transformation". As designers we don't sell decor instead helping someone achieve an objective, transforming a business idea into a new reality. From dull > cool, blending in > outstanding, selling some > flying off the shelves, struggling > winning, maybe we should > yes, lets do it. Contact
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2023 - THE YEAR EVERYTHING CHANGED (02/24) The past year marked a significant turning point for us as creatives. It was the moment when AI stepped into the professional arena, and almost overnight, everything underwent a transformation. The manner in which we work, create, and conduct research underwent a paradigm shift. Personally, it was a period during which I had to reassess our approach to everything we had accomplished previously—the challenges of sourcing materials that convey a creative vision. The speed with which we can now explore and art direct ideas and effortlessly share virtually unlimited iterations with just a prompt and the click of the mouse is truly remarkable. And it's just the beginning. Stay tuned for more exciting things to come.
NEW: BRAND SPRINTS (11/23) The Ideal Branding Solution for Early-Stage Companies: High-end Agency Design Quality in Under Two Weeks. MORE HERE
FALLING DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE (11/23) The beauty of the rabbit hole, and the warren you create by falling down it, is how it activates your curiosity to generate new, reflective pockets of information and knowledge. And the better you become at “finding,” the more portals emerge, and the farther you get from a complete sense of having found. The state of curiosity is one of abundance: an unlimited resource for connecting, exploring, reflecting, documenting, and creating. To find is to begin, again, to wander. - Alden Burke
We grow when we embrace curiosity. We win when we change a trajectory. We evolve when we move from ego to soul. From fast to far. That’s what opens up new territories, new opportunities. That’s where we serve as creatives. With experience, wisdom and with passion. That’s our sweet spot.
FROM BRAND STORY TO FUTURE STORY (10/23) This is our process: Everything starts with a conversation. It's a face-to-face discovery workshop that helps to determine where your brand stands in the eyes of the consumer and what it communicates. This may include market research. We discuss the “Brand Story,” the essence of a brand, the Status Quo. But mostly we try to uncover your "Future Story". Armed with that awareness, your business can engage with your customers (and team) with more focus and clarity. As a result, marketing (website, social media, trade shows) will become less arduous and more effective - and exciting!
If you’d like to learn more about your future, give us a call: +1.213.446.7986 (PT)
PARTNER (08/23) Marc Posch Design is now Marc Posch + Partner Branding/Digital Marketing. A group of creatives, thinkers - flanked by a powerful team of digital marketing experts: Hawke Media. We are known for helping emerging tech and manufacturing companies to disrupt, stand out, and grow. With our experience, deep industry expertise, and all the collaborators to make it happen. Think dangerously, act responsibly.
We believe that to be outstanding you have to stand out. You have to have the courage to show true colors, personality, and a bold vision. Breakthroughs are never created in board rooms, and success stories never grow out of comfort zones.
FIVE KEY TRENDS (05/23) I asked ChatGPT: What are five key trends or opportunities for branding agencies to survive or thrive in that new era of AI?
In the new era of AI, branding agencies have the opportunity to adapt and thrive by capitalizing on key trends. Here are five trends and opportunities for branding agencies:
Embrace AI-powered personalization: AI allows brands to deliver highly personalized customer experiences. Branding agencies can leverage AI to create personalized messaging, targeted campaigns, and tailored brand experiences across various touchpoints. By utilizing AI algorithms and data analytics, agencies can understand customer preferences, behavior, and demographics to craft compelling and customized branding strategies.
Harness the power of data-driven insights: AI enables agencies to analyze vast amounts of data quickly and extract valuable insights. Branding agencies can utilize AI tools to gather and analyze consumer data, market trends, and competitor analysis. These insights can inform branding strategies, help identify new target audiences, and uncover untapped market opportunities, giving agencies a competitive edge.
Create AI-infused brand experiences: AI technologies like chatbots, voice assistants, and augmented reality (AR) offer exciting opportunities to enhance brand experiences. Branding agencies can help brands integrate AI technologies into customer touchpoints to provide interactive and engaging experiences. For example, agencies can create AI-powered chatbots that offer real-time customer support or develop AR applications that allow customers to experience products or services virtually.
Develop AI-powered content creation: AI can automate and streamline content creation processes, making them more efficient and cost-effective. Branding agencies can explore AI tools that generate content, such as AI-driven copywriting and automated design systems. By combining human creativity with AI-generated content, agencies can scale their operations, reduce production costs, and deliver high-quality branded content faster.
Stay at the forefront of ethical AI: Ethical considerations become crucial as AI becomes more prevalent. Branding agencies have the opportunity to lead in responsible AI practices by ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability in their AI-driven branding strategies. Agencies can help brands build customer trust by adopting ethical AI frameworks, addressing algorithm bias, and safeguarding consumer data privacy.
By embracing these trends and opportunities, branding agencies can leverage AI to enhance their capabilities, provide innovative solutions to clients, and thrive in the evolving landscape of branding and marketing.
THE FUTURE OF DESIGN? (03/23) A lot has happened since the beginning of this year. New AI-based applications have entered the creative realm and launched a firestorm: Dall-E, Midjourney, and, most of all, ChatGPT are in the process of changing everything we learned about the mechanics of our business practically overnight. For some, it is seen as a blessing. For others, as a curse that threatens our existence as writers and designers. It's a launch into a new world; we still need to find out where it will lead and what role we can play in this new environment.
I find those technologies fascinating, and playing with them for a few weeks has shown me one thing: AI, as sophisticated as it may be, can only draw from what has been from the past but cannot think forward (so far). AI can do a lot of research and even handle standard procedures. Still, when it comes to creating something new, often by simply combining two or three unrelated ideas, that's when human ingenuity and experience matter. And will this ever be replaced by AI? Only the future will tell.
GEN X (12/22) This year has given me ample time to think about our way forward as a creative agency. With the rise of 50+ consumers, it seems like a natural fit for us to focus laser-sharp on this crucial audience and help our clients connect with them. With 30+ years of experience in marketing and branding, we feel well equipped for that task and qualified to become the branding and marketing GenX-perts. If you like to learn more, contact us and request our free brochure "GenX. who Cares? We Do."
COMING IN 23 (12/22) Expect changes in the coming year. We will move things around a bit. Marc Posch + Partner will be our new name starting in January, with a new focus on GenX marketing. Opus will take the backseat. I haven't figured out yet what to do with it. One idea is to use it for a magazine about Tech, Design + Culture, our three magical ingredients. We will see.
MICAH ABARQUEZ (10/22) Micah is new to the Marc Posch team. He's someone with extraordinary marketing talents: A researcher, an investigator, a guy who's dedicated and dives deep to find the content we need. With years of experience in the digital marketing field, we had to give him a unique title. Please welcome Micah Abarquez, our Marketing Magician
DIGITAL MARKETING (09/22) Many modern digital marketing firms are driven by understanding and executing the nuances of the tech that has dominated the space (SEO, CRO, etc.). Less powerful than it should be in their work is the basics of persuasion, creative, and classic CDJ*. It's enabled the modern marketing bro to leap into the field without grasping the rich foundation of economics, psychology, story, and concept. We're really missing something in the modern digital firm (at least the typical one). Many of these firms weren't drawn to the space for the love of understanding humans but rather the opportunity to master the tech and make a quick buck. They are essentially serving Google and FB and Insta and TikTok and the black hole of retargeting rather than the consumer...and their client. – David C. Baker
*A marketing super-tool, the customer decision journey (CDJ) map is used by CMOs and senior marketers to make sure their team or whole organization improves: Understanding your consumer: What customers are paying attention to during each stage from becoming aware of your brand to buying something.
FACTS (08/22) "You can't change people's minds with facts alone. This is a mistake made by many scientists. People don't think in facts but in stories. In order to change human thinking, one must be able to construct an alternate narrative.” - Yuval Noah Harari
“A good designer will help companies get where they want to go. A great designer serves and inspires where they should go.”
DESIGN THINKING (08/22) was developed in the 70s as a framework for design with a more human-centric focus. While today Design Thinking means different things to different people, we like to see it as the Right Brain component of a brand development process, as the structural and philosophical scaffolding that brings clarity to a project and allows the creation of a brand story and captivating visuals.
CURIOSITY, CREATIVITY (07/22) The urge to innovate is a constant theme and a driving force behind our actions. Without innovation, there's no real growth. Over the years, we found there are two essential ingredients to push the envelope: It takes curiosity and creativity to explore new directions. Curiosity is the mindset that gets us out of a fear zone, the fear of change, and creativity is the tool that gives us the freedom to explore uncharted waters. In tandem, they allow us to develop ideas that lead to innovation and growth.
WHY ART MATTERS (07/22) Art permits us to enter the space called creativity. Art inspires and allows us to think like an artist, unbound from reality, to see beyond common knowledge and tradition. It takes us into the unknown, to places where we can find new solutions to old problems, opening the door to innovation and progress.
ABOUT DESIGN (06/22)
"Now, the first day of my graphic design training at Penn State University, the teacher, Lanny Sommese, came into the room, and he drew a picture of an apple on the blackboard and wrote the word apple underneath, and he said, okay - lesson one, listen up. And he covered up the picture, and he said, you either say this, and then he covered up the word, or you show this. And then he took his hand away, and you had the picture of the apple. And you had the word apple underneath, and he said......but you don't do this. Because this is treating your audience like a moron. And they deserve better." – Chipp Kidd
TALENTS (05/22)
1. Mediocre talents need a map, so they know what to do.
2. Great talents need a goal, so they can figure it out on their own.
3. Exceptional talents need to know the problem, and they will tell me what to do.
(Hat tip to Marko Pfann)
1. Mediocre talents need a map, so they know what to do.
2. Great talents need a goal, so they can figure it out on their own.
3. Exceptional talents need to know the problem, and they will tell me what to do.
(Hat tip to Marko Pfann)
THE SECRET OF CREATIVITY (02/22) Creativity is a tricky beast. We expect it to show up like a flash of lightning, a divine spark, and then guide us in building something new and exciting. If only it were that easy. But where does creativity come from? For me working in the Creative Industry, it's a question I've been confronted with for most of my life. How do you fill this sheet of paper with ideas when all you have is an outline of a project? How do you build something genuine from nothing? I want to share an excellent article by writing coach David Perrell. Enjoy: (Full article)
POWER OF THREE (02/22) Sometimes, you have to take a step back, pause and then move forward. Last year has given us plenty of time to think about where we want to go and how we want to present our talents. The Power of Three concept was born: A new team of three and three product offerings. More here
NEW CLIENTS (01/22) The year starts well for us. Two new clients signed up. One in the hospitality industry and one tech company, both familiar turf for us. I am very excited. And why the surf picture? We had a long kick-off meeting in Santa Monica that ended with a beautiful sunset. Maybe next time we go surfing. Ok?
BAUHAUS DNA WITH A CALIFORNIA SPIRIT (01/22)
"My role as a brand consultant and designer is to solve business problems through creative thinking. What makes our work different is the combination of European design sensibilities with a Westcoast vibe. It reflects my upbringing in Switzerland and Germany, my deep roots in Europe's rich and diverse history, and the influences from my adopted hometown, Los Angeles, with its vibrant creative energy. Call it a blend of Bauhaus DNA with a California spirit; it keeps our work structured and meaningful and adds creative fire to craft brand stories and visuals that help our clients innovate and grow. And with a new focus on 50+ resp. GenX consumers, we see this as an exciting way forward." – Marc Posch
INTERVIEW (09/21) Curiosity and a forward-looking attitude are what drives us, not just successes of the past. We create the world we want to live in. His office created branding and design concepts and served over 300 technology companies such as Apple Germany and BMW and numerous start-ups in the world of European and US commerce. Based in Downtown Los Angeles since 2010, the Marc Posch Design agency continues to thrive through the collaborative energy of a dedicated team of talents under Marc’s leadership. MORE
BUSINESS IDENTITY (08/21) You may know us for designing Brand Identities. We've done this for years. Sometimes we called it Corporate Identity. Hell, why not. But lately, I have had second thoughts. The word "corporate" seems to come with a sour aftertaste today. It often stands for giant, faceless, soulless constructs that care more about shareholder values than customers or employees. From now on, I want to call what we do Business Identity. While this seems like a minor semantic issue, I hope it resonates with the right business owners: people with a sense of fair, care, and share. You are our audience. Welcome!
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NEW PARADIGM (07/21) The new paradigm is branding as the brain and digital marketing as the executive behind sustainable growth. Marc Posch Design: Visionary ideas welcome.
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MISSION STATEMENT (06/21) We work with leaders, rebels, and visionaries in the technology and manufacturing sectors to create better products, inspire better processes and bring clarity to their message, all of which lead to better performance.
We advocate for design with a broader impact than just creating pretty things instead of embracing the call for NetZero, which is more relevant than ever. We believe that we can only achieve economic success in harmony with the demands for living and growing in ways that support the well-being of all people and the environment. We measure success by the positive impact we have on others.
We advocate for design with a broader impact than just creating pretty things instead of embracing the call for NetZero, which is more relevant than ever. We believe that we can only achieve economic success in harmony with the demands for living and growing in ways that support the well-being of all people and the environment. We measure success by the positive impact we have on others.
VENDOR/PARTNERS (05/21) I believe when we treat the people we work with like vendors, we get what we ask for, but not more. However, if we treat them as partners, we get ideas and suggestions beyond the scope of work. This is how I see the relationship with our clients, and it's what they expect from us.
CREATING a logo is almost like creating a sculpture. You start with a block of marble and then chip everything away that is unnecessary. A logo does not need to represent the product or functionality; that's often a given. Otherwise, Mercedes would have an engine in their logo, and Nike a running shoe. A logo is a marker; it stands for something that goes deeper. It represents a value, something a consumer can or wants to identify with. And you only get there by chipping away at what's irrelevant or confusing until you find the core. – Marc Posch
DESIGN/CREATE (03/21) An observation: When I mention Design, most people feel insecure as if I'm talking about some mysterious Turn-Lead-Into-Gold process. However, when I talk about Creating something, their eyes light up. That's when people feel they can be involved and contribute to the process. Magical. Let's create something - together: Contact us
AWARD The British Ad World Masters seem to like what we do. What an honor. A big Thank you across the pond for the prestigious award. Contact us
THE IDEAL CLIENT (03/21) Our sweet spot is working in the areas where tomorrow’s problems and tomorrow’s solutions vie with each other for primacy, where technologies, culture, and ideas are created that will shape our world, from renewable energy, New Mobility, AI to intelligent materials. We love to work with people who invent a better future, business owners who break molds, and visionaries driven by passion and a purpose. Is that you? Then we would like to meet you. Contact us
SIMPLICITY PROMOTES CLARITY (02/2021) Products can be complex. Design needs to be simple. This is what guides us. Not by creating complex things, but by making complex things understandable. Design as a noun is invisible. It's a quality that works in the background and is intangible. On the other hand, design is a craft that helps us understand functions, recognize patterns, and follow a message. The simpler or minimalist the designed result is, the better it can stand out in a crowded environment. Simplicity promotes clarity. We design logos (like the one above) and visual identities to accomplish that. It's what we are passionate about. Quite simple, isn't it? Contact us
“The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed.” - C.G. Jung
INTERVIEW wITH STARTUP.INFO, PARIS (12/2020) "Think Dangerously, Act Responsibly, Says Creative Director Marc Posch". Full article
VISION 2021 (11/2020) Instead of driving around in circles on a cul-de-sac, we thrive on being a team whose spirit of creativity and social responsibility invites and inspires people to work with us. Curiosity and a forward-looking attitude drive us, not just successes of the past. We create the world we want to live in. We are Marc Posch Design. Think dangerously. Act responsibly. Contact us
FEATURED ON DESIGN RUSH. We are excited to be featured on Designrush.com as one of the Top Branding Agencies of 2020: Click here
NEW CLIENT IN THEN EV CHARGING SECTOR Opus LA signed a new client in the EV Charging sector. It’s a market that will explode in the next couple of years. We are excited to be the branding and marketing partner of one of the hottest start-ups. Stay tuned. More to come. MarcPoschDesign.com Think dangerously. Act responsibly.
Every Act of Design is an Act of Future-making. The powerful can use design for short-term gains, quick answers, and superficial changes. Who’s affected today, and who’s affected tomorrow? To discuss how design shapes the future, you must always ask: who’s the future? Full article: Click here
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EMPATHY/CREATIVITY (08/2020) Empathy is behind the philosophy of our creative agency and works best in tandem with Creativity: Empathy opens the door to understanding a problem, Creativity is the path towards a solution. MORE
TRUST AND SUCCESS (08/2020) "There is a formula for business success, and it goes like this: You set out to find the very best talent in the marketplace, and then give them a compelling and inspirational vision of what you want them to achieve for you and the company. Then you empower them to achieve those goals using their skills and talents in any way they choose. If, at the same time, you demonstrate how enormously you value them, not just through compensation but also verbally, every single day, and if you enable that talent to share in the profit they help create for you, you’ll be successful. It’s so simple, and virtually nobody does it because it requires a high-trust working environment, and most business environments are low-trust. To own the future of your business, you have to design it around trust." – Cindy Gallop
DECORATOR OR AGENT OF CHANGE? (08/2020) Design can camouflage a problem, or it can trigger change. When done right, design can be a powerful agent of transformation, the visual representation of a solution. We often see that people only use a fraction of its potential, only use it or regard it as a tool for decorating: 'We need new packaging, we need a new website. The other problem is that many designers are more concerned with the aesthetics of a job than its impact. We talk about fonts, colors, photography, catchy headlines, and all the ingredients that create beautiful products. Still, unless we discuss with the client what design is supposed to achieve, all we create are - shiny objects. My ideal client is the one I can have an honest discussion with about what problems he or she is facing and how we as creatives can help turn the ship around. Creative ideas and beautiful visuals are essential, but it also takes empathy and vision to drive innovation, to be an agent of change. Interested in having a conversation? Email me
VIDEO PRODUCTION. (07/2020) Great video shoot with the outstanding actor and friend Cameron Gilliam. Cameron has also worked with us as a writer. He's a man with many talents and always a pleasure to have on the team. This cross-generational collaboration also shows that we can all learn from each other. Now I'm super excited about the video, which is currently in post-production. More coming soon.
HELLO MEXICO CITY. (07/2020) As a creative firm, we are only as good as the people we engage with. Lately, we have been working with an amazing illustrator from Mexico City, Vago, who designs fantastic 3D renderings. Vago is currently creating a series of characters for us for a project targeting veterinarians, so stay tuned. It’s going to be awesome. To see more of Vago’s work click here
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a global village. (07/2020) I'm often amazed how work has changed, not just since the pandemic. Even though our core group works in Los Angeles, we often talk with clients or partners in Europe or the East Coast, send job orders to Argentina or Nigeria, and discuss ideas with creatives in Mexico. Everything is just an email or a Zoom call away today. Our world has become a global village. Contact us
EMigre. (05/2020) One of my favorite design magazines from the 90s is back online: Emigre, a trendsetter in design and typography and very influential (at least for me) in the early days of computational design when things were still very raw and experimental. Seeing that design trends always come and go in circles (is it time to kiss Midcentury sleekness goodbye for a while?), maybe it's time for a rebound of this type of visual thinking. Exciting. Check out the Letterform Archive
MURAL CONCEPT. (05/2020) Always keep your proposals. Sometimes a design that gets rejected gains new momentum a few years later. This mural concept here got us a new client who was looking for creative ways to spice up an otherwise dry manufacturing business. This could become a landmark! Very excited. Contact us
MEET ANDY. (05/2020) Our newest team member: Andy, 6 years old. He's our secret weapon when exploring a key message with our clients. Don't worry, Andy is a virtual character taken from the ThisPersonDoesNotExist.com archive. (No kids were harmed!) We use the Andy avatar to have our clients explain what they do. Seems simple? Then try to explain a 6 year old what your business is about. You'll be surprised. Contact us
NEW CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED. (04/2020) We just finished a new website and Linkedin campaign for our client, Leolo IT, a software company from Germany (in partnership with IBM). The company wanted to present new products and services related to AI/climate research, Quantum based data security, and IBM Watson-based sports applications. It was also an incredible collaboration between a tech expert/writer in Lagos/Nigeria, our copy editor in London, our WordPress developer in Los Angeles - and the client in Munich/Germany. And all this under lockdown and within four weeks turnaround. That’s how we roll! Contact us
MOODBOARD. (04/2020) A few motifs we have been using in a current campaign for a software company. I like the juxtaposition of abstract and real-life scenes.
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Engineers solve problems. Business strategists think in pie charts. Designers want things to be elegant and functional. All three need to create collaboration and synergy, honoring the talent and value each other brings to the game. Today’s challenges require a new kind of multi-dimensional approach to solving problems. – Marc Posch
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SELF-ISOLATION. (03/2020) Prophet Muhammad received the first revelations of the Qur’an while alone in a cave on Mount Hira. Jesus traveled alone into the desert, defeated Satan, and then returned to start his ministry. Remarkable things have happened in self-isolation. Let's see what grows out of the situation we're in right now. What are you working on?
AT THE END OF THE DAY. (03/2020) A positive mindset is what gets us through the day. We should always take a moment to calibrate, even in the midst of a storm. Here five questions to ask yourself:
#1: What was the best part about your day?
#2: What work was most exciting you this week?
#3: What new ideas are giving you energy lately?
#4: What's the one thing you’ve learned recently that inspired you.
#5: What is the one thing you could do right now to make tomorrow even better?
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#2: What work was most exciting you this week?
#3: What new ideas are giving you energy lately?
#4: What's the one thing you’ve learned recently that inspired you.
#5: What is the one thing you could do right now to make tomorrow even better?
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"I worship at the altar of intention and obstacle. Somebody wants something, and something is standing in their way of getting it. They want the money; they want the girl; they want to get to Philadelphia. Then the obstacle to that has to be formidable, and the tactics they use to overcome that obstacle are what shows us the character.” – Aaron Sorkin (NY Times Interview)
MASTERY. (03/2020) "Mastery is the ability to understand and command an idea or project. It is the alchemic and skillful magic of transforming chaos into order and usefulness and control. It is the clarity of vision and purpose to see though the foglands of the unknown and comprehend and chart a roadmap for others to follow." – Philip Folsom, WolfTribe
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HAPPY FRIDAY. (03/2020) More and more clients in the tech and manufacturing sectors find us. Working in that area is definitely our sweet spot. Recently a company that manufactures computer screens invited us to come on board for a comprehensive brand refresh, and now the contract is signed. Very excited. Enjoy your weekend.
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“A fixed mindset is focused on proving oneself while a growth mindset is all about improving oneself." – Carol Dweck, Psychologist, author of “Mindset”
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REMARKABLE. (02/2020) "I used to say that brands are made up of two things. Primarily there are two questions that have to be asked to create a successful brand. And one’s an internally facing question, which is, who are you? which is about authenticity and who you really are and what you stand for. And then there’s an outwardly facing question. That’s the second question, which is, where are you going? Which is how are you relevant and congruent, to the larger world, to your audience, to your community, to the marketplace.
One’s about authenticity and one’s about relevance. I don’t believe that anymore. I think you still have to be deeply authentic and understand exactly who you are. What role do you want to play in the world, what do you believe, what do you believe the future should be like and, and what can you do to build that? Those are all internally facing questions, but I don’t think relevance is relevant any more. I think you have to be extraordinary.
There’s a survey, a fairly robust one. It was done by a global agency. They did a global survey and said if 90% of the world’s brands disappeared, no one would really care.
So if you’re not somehow provocative or interesting or sexy or curious, the kind of work that you create doesn’t provoke people or inspire them or delight them in some uncommon way, then you’re invisible.
The way we look at it now, a brand has to be both authentic and true to who it is, but it has to be insanely inspiring, insanely interesting and remarkable. So if you’re not remarkable, you’re ignored. And so what we try to do with all of our clients is create something that’s remarkable.” (Brian Collins > LINK )
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“To design is much more than simply assemble, to order, or even to edit; it is to add value and meaning, to illuminate, to simplify, to clarify, to modify, to dignify, to dramatize, to persuade, and perhaps even to amuse.” – Paul Rand, Artist and Architect
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NEW PROJECT. (02/2020) Naming and brand identity development for a 503B compounding pharmaceutical company... More here
WORDS TO START THE DAY WITH. (02/20) "There is no insurmountable solitude. All paths lead to the same goal: to convey to others what we are. And we must pass through solitude and difficulty, isolation and silence in order to reach forth to the enchanted place where we can dance our clumsy dance and sing our sorrowful song — but in this dance or in this song there are fulfilled the most ancient rites of our conscience in the awareness of being human and of believing in a common destiny..." Pablo Neruda at his Nobel Prize Acceptance Speech
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"From my perspective, we all carry creativity in us, but most of us just can't access it because it's hidden somewhere deep inside. Everyone sees, everyone hears, everyone feels. But not everyone gets it translated into a language. The freer you become - no matter how it happens - the wider your perspective becomes." (Interview with Peter Lindbergh, Der Spiegel)
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HAPPY NEW YEAR. (12/2019) With the year coming to an end we look forward to 2020. While the future is always difficult to predict and often influenced by negative stories that trigger fear, we want to welcome the new year with "Optimismus", German for optimism. Optimism is the engine behind our basic principle "We are what we create". If we approach things with optimism, then we are able to ignore doom and gloom, and rather approach challenges as opportunities in need for solutions. Have a Happy New Year!
CBD PROJECT. (11/2019) Amazing project, amazing people. Phase 1 (brand identity, website) finished. KavanaHealth.com More coming soon. Follow us on Twitter
STARTUPS. (11/2019) "The best startups I’ve either worked with or admired from afar have been restless challengers. Status quo averse. And driven by a sense of urgency. They’re not lucky, they’re different. I believe a graphic distillation that captures that difference with a really great copy line is really important." – David C. Baker
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NEW TECH CLIENT SIGNED. (09/2019) Working with international clients is something we are very familiar with. In 2018 we were hired by an international organization with their HQ in Paris to develop a global strategy for their 100+ offices. This week we signed with a tech company based in Glasgow, with offices in the US and Dubai. More soon or follow us on Twitter
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NEW RESTAURANT PROJECT. (09/2019) It is always an honor when clients return with a new project. This entrepreneur from Munich came back after 30 years! He was one of my first clients and I helped him and his partners create a brand identity for what at that time was a small but beautiful bar and restaurant: Julep's. Over the years that small place has become a multi-million Euro franchise restaurant chain spread across Europe. More here. We are now working on the next success story. More soon or follow us on Twitter
The age of Digital Transformation. Today's business challenges don't ask for pretty design, cool websites or smart tag lines. We're in the age of Digital Transformation now. With a redefined need for learning, understanding, and problem-solving. We help emerging start-ups to get up, and established companies to evolve and move with the times. Changes happen at break-neck speed today, whether we like it or not. This is where collaborative efforts are most successful: Understanding the problems a company is facing, and providing creative solutions, from defining a brand story and translating it into powerful messages to designing beautiful visuals that touch people's hearts and impact their minds. It's the duality Empathy/Creativity that defines our thinking and our work.
MARC POSCH + PARTNER: We help turn tech and manufacturing companies into brands. Contact: 213-446-7986 or click
