DDB launches problem solving initiative ‘Shaper’
DDB Sydney will launch a new business model that looks at “solving human problems” in a way it claims has not yet been seen in Australia.
The model, to be known as Shaper, creates pitches, ideas, products and other business concepts in response to problems in the community, which can then be presented to clients.
The idea is the brainchild of DDB Sydney executive creative director Darwin Tomlinson and strategic planner Ryan Richards who both approached DDB Australia CEO Chris Brown with similar ideas in recent months. Tomlinson said: “I was talking with Chris about my role in the organisation and how I was meant to be fostering innovation within the day-to-day operations. Ryan was also having similar conversations at roughly the same time. Chris saw what was happening and put us together until we figured out what that next innovation could be.”
Taking aspects from various business models around the world including Frog Design, Toms Shoes, Asos and Kickstarter among others, the pair claim they have created a new model.
Outstanding. An intelligent approach to innovation that will leverage and demonstrate the true capabilities of an agency – being lead by 2 industry leaders.
Excited to see the successes.
Well done DT and team.
I don’t know these people, and I presume they are respected and smart fellows. In saying that, is it just me that feels like the idea is being clouded by the smashing together of concepts and business rhetoric? Hollow-men style.
Sorry, but can’t help but feel this is another attempt to bridge the gap between agencies and consulting firms that is doomed for later filing under ‘suppressed’.
“Not yet seen in Australia”. DDBwahhahahahahahaaha.
Where’s Darwin in the picture?
Yes RR. Great stuff.
Where did advertising people get the idea that because they can come up with clever little communications, that they have the ability to solve the world’s problems?
Care to cite references Gazza?
Would love to see this work (the idealist in me).
But the cynical realist in me suggests I put today + 1 year in my calendar, as a reminder to check back and see if Shaper still exists.
Darwin is an amazing talent. This is perfect for him. Watch that space i reckon
oh great another workshop…
You have a traditional approach for the ‘day to day’ stuff i.e. 97% of what you do. Then an innovative approach for a few specific ‘fun’ briefs.
Its what saatchi & Saatchi did some years ago with farenheit 101 (or soemthing like that).
It’s admirable, but doesn’t it undermine your traditional process for the rest of your work?