When it comes to creative consulting, the ability to harness innovation while aligning with client objectives is an art form. We sat down with Bluewater’s talented Creative Director, Eric Minni to discuss his insights and strategies in regard to the delicate balance between creativity and strategy. Keep reading to learn more about how our Creative Team achieves success when it comes to creative consulting.
Understanding Client Needs and Expectations
“I like to think of our process as design by empathy – setting aside our assumptions to really understand the objective.”
Understanding a client’s needs requires a careful approach. The initial step involves the Discovery phase. This phase is characterized by active listening and extensive research. Through interviews with key stakeholders and comprehensive research, the team dives deep into defining the project’s goals. Following this is the Alignment phase, where findings are compiled into a report to ensure client alignment before diving into the ideation process.
Ideation and Problem-Solving in Creative Consulting
“Once we’ve identified the ask, we’ll generally begin with a loosely defined collaborative brainstorm.”
The ideation process is vital to formulating innovative and effective solutions. Initiating with an open, collaborative brainstorm allows for a wide range of playful and inventive ideas to come to life. Eventually, refining these ideas ensures they align with the initial objectives while being workable within resource and capability constraints.
The Power of Empathy in Influencing Project Outcomes
“The discovery process allows us insight into the client’s history, the family behind the brand, and the needs of the employees and customers.”
Empathy forms the foundation of impactful project outcomes. A standout example is the work done for White Castle. Through empathetic discovery, the team gained enough insight to achieve success. This project is a phenomenal example of how our team used technology to help elevate brand culture and positively transform workplace communication and collaboration in their new corporate HQ.
Balancing Creativity and Strategy in Consulting
“The most provocative ideas won’t succeed if they don’t serve the overarching objective.”
Achieving the delicate equilibrium between creativity and strategy is essential. Our creative experts emphasize keeping the client’s needs at the forefront. They advise aspiring consultants to prioritize active listening, fostering ideas, and ensuring these ideas are aligned with client objectives for a successful outcome.
In conclusion, successful creative consulting requires a combination of empathy, ideation, strategic alignment, and an unwavering focus on client needs. By following these guidelines, our team ensures not just innovative solutions but also the satisfaction of clients’ goals and expectations. If you find yourself looking for a partner in creativity, innovation, and storytelling to help bring your creative vision to life, look no further. Bluewater’s creative services team is a one-stop solution, offering a wide range of services, including photography, video production, content creation, art direction, scenic design, and much more. Contact us today to get started.
