The Lessons of 2023
Another year of brand launches, of digital transformation, of fundraising campaigns for charities... and a few firsts for us!
As we prepare for our annual winter break, we take some time to reflect on what we’ve all learned in the last year. Scroll down for everything on our thoughts on AI to the awesomeness of garden birds!
Christopher Graham
Founder & CEO
(Sometimes) breaking the rules can lead to extraordinary results
“One big thing at a time” was the advice I got from my mentor 20 years ago and I’ve always tried to stick to it. But this year I broke this rule - we did a brand launch on the same day as our first ever trade mission! Quite a lot could have gone wrong here, but we were up to the challenge and it all went swimmingly!
Trialling things before jumping feet-first is ok
We’re constantly tuning and refining our approach to things at TMD. Post-Covid, we were somewhat against working at home unless there were specific circumstances but after a successful trial we’ve loosened up on that a bit. We’ve also (finally!) been trialling Slack in a bid to cut emails and increase people’s knowledge of goings-on across the team and that’s been revolutionary.
I’m actually quite good with plants
Early in 2023 I started adding plants to our studio’s mezzanine level. This just started off as an experiment to see if we could add a bit of organic life and atmosphere to our workplace and it’s worked out pretty well, despite fears I’d manage to kill them all. We now have 66 plants in the studio… and more to be added!
James Anderson
Creative Director
AI: Is it really a threat?
I've been observing the upward trend in the use of new AI technology and have been wondering if this could pose a threat to the creative community in Scotland, particularly when it comes to branding – Maybe in time, but a recent project has taught me that we are nowhere near that point. A good brand has to represent its organisation, reflect its values and emote its aspirations and from what I've seen, AI can't do that!
We all have our part to play
The climate crisis is real and affects all of us. I'm proud that TMD works with a number of organisations that are leading industry, government and communities to find solutions. I've learned from our clients that although mass change is required, I as an individual can make changes that can go a long way and I am actively, if slowly, putting those into action.
The return of inspiration
The last few years have been difficult, with lockdown, home working, isolation, mask-wearing… I could go on. This year has seen the triumphant return of in-person events, meetings, public gatherings, sold-out concerts, busy restaurants and packed dancefloors. Meeting new people, making new conversations and exploring new ideas is where I, as a designer, draw a lot of my inspiration. We, at TMD, oversee a number of events, and I'm very excited about those that we’re running in 2024.
Laura Gwafa
Graphic Designer
No time like the present
As I transition through the early years of adulthood, it has become increasingly apparent that no matter what happens in life, life simply keeps going. Time keeps passing and seasons are gone as soon as they’ve begun. If there was ever a time to try a new hobby, learn a new skill, cook a new meal or invest in the stock market, it would be NOW! I’m learning not to wait too long to follow new passions and dreams. Afterall, life is for living.
My voice matters
Humility is for all and the world is in constant change. The power of coming together and using your small but powerful voice in times of crisis to speak against the injustices of the world, is a fight for humanity. "The truth is, no one of us can be free until everybody is free." – Maya Angelou.
Forget the halls, deck the slides!
This year, I’ve become very good at making slide decks, to be used by our clients when delivering presentations. Personalised, stylised and well-branded slide decks have become my new calling at TMD. Why not set your New Year off to a great start, with a stellar slide deck!
Connor Polley
Digital Delivery Assistant
Inspirational charities
During my time working for TMD, we have worked with lots of companies in the charity sector, and this has greatly increased my appreciation for them and their work. For example, I’d never heard of the Abaseen Foundation until we began working with them, and the work they do to help others is amazing and inspiring.
Office working is where I’m happiest
I regularly work both from the office and from home, and I can say without question that I prefer to be in the office. I say this as our work is very cooperative and being able to speak to my teammates makes work easier and more fun. I also prefer the office as I’m easily distracted by everything at home!
New experiences
I’ve had many new experiences this year that have not only boosted my skills but also my knowledge. The most memorable of these was way back in February, when I assisted our client NECCUS at their annual conference, DeCarbScotland. Here, I met many new people, assisted in delivering my first full-day event, and on top of this, had my first over-night work trip. I had fun and I’m grateful to have had these experiences.
Joey Baker
Marketing & Research Officer
Hitting my creative stride
I’ve recently found a new joy in video editing. Creative digital tools haven’t always sat well with me – I’m no Adobe Illustrator whiz. But give me 10 minutes of hodgepodge footage and I’ll make it shine! This year, I’ve enjoyed making Instagram reels, silent webpage videos and company ‘trailers’ for our clients, and I hope to make more intricate, longer-form pieces as my skills evolve.
Buy life insurance…
I jest, but you’re not young forever! I’ve had a clean streak of good health for 25 years, and this year has really kicked my butt, health-wise. I won’t always be the healthiest version of me, but I’m learning that peaks and troughs are just part of life. Onwards and upwards!
Birds are awesome
At the start of 2023, I endeavoured to spend my lunch breaks at TMD out and about, learning about the natural world around me. What started as a mere curiosity has snowballed into a fully-fledged obsession. I can now identify most garden birds by their calls, which is deeply concerning.
