Summary:
DBCo was founded to bridge the gap between in-house branding and independent studio agility.
The studio emphasizes a co-creation-first approach, fostering collaboration with clients.
A growing focus on brand strategy is evident among tech companies today.
DBCo prioritizes stability over rapid expansion, aiming to maintain a senior-led team.
They predict a continued merging of design and engineering in the coming years.
Understanding the Birth of DBCo
Two years ago, Design Business Company (DBCo) emerged from a keen insight: many agencies lack a true understanding of modern software companies. Founded by Stewart Scott-Curran, Judson Collier, and Jordan Egstad, DBCo aims to bridge the gap between the strategic depth of in-house teams and the creative agility of independent studios.
"In the startup world, internal brand teams often follow predictable patterns," explains Stewart Scott-Curran. "We frequently found agencies were out of touch with the fast-paced nature of software companies."
With experience from Nike, CNN, Apple, Intercom, Figma, and GitHub, the founders leverage their in-house branding expertise to foster a collaborative environment that aligns seamlessly with product and marketing teams.
Judson Collier
Stewart Scott-Curran
Jordan Egstad
Rethinking the Client-Agency Relationship
DBCo emphasizes a co-creation-first approach, mirroring the iterative processes of top product teams. "We aim for a collaborative relationship rather than a transactional one," Scott-Curran states. This involves working as an embedded partner, prioritizing transparency and efficiency over traditional presentations.
"We prefer simple and lightweight presentations, often just opening Figma to showcase our work."
This adaptability extends to their structure, allowing them to collaborate with a fluid network of specialists as needed.
The Evolution of Brand Strategy in Tech
One significant trend observed by DBCo is a growing focus on brand strategy. Companies are increasingly aware of their market positioning and the articulation of product benefits. Clients now seek a brand framework that integrates seamlessly with their product experience.
"They want partners who understand the product creation process and how to take it to market effectively."
DBCo is selective about trends, opting for intentional use of AI and avoiding rushed branding approaches.
What’s Next for DBCo?
As DBCo enters its third year, the focus is on stability rather than rapid expansion. They aim to stay cash-positive, hire responsibly, and avoid the pitfalls of rapid scaling.
"We want to maintain a senior-led, adaptable team while refining our strategic offerings and exploring emerging technologies."
Looking ahead, DBCo anticipates a continued merging of design and engineering, emphasizing the importance of integrating both into the creative process. In an industry often obsessed with scale, DBCo is championing a model of thoughtful and deeply embedded creative partnerships for the future of branding.
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