I’m working through my RSS feeds and have come across several lists that highlight key things from 2007 as well as lists looking ahead for 2008. It’s interesting to see how the different perspectives influence the items on the list of each individual. It would be very interesting to see a mash-up of lists and see what pops out as the top ten for 2007 as well as the top ten looking forward for 2008.

One of the forward looking lists that tweaked my interest was put together by Idris Mootee over at Innovation Playground. He’s a very insightful writer and I’ve learned much from reading his blog. Two things in particular jumped out at me and I’ve added them below.

The first revolves around the future of digital agencies. I work at an experiential/digital agency so it’s good news as far as I’m concerned. I also see a shift in marketing departments towards this thinking as well. The second revolves around design. I feel that design is definitely the way of the future for brands that get it. The design of the product, the design of the user experience, the design of the communications surrounding the brand. It’s interesting and exciting.

From Idriss Mootee
Digital Agencies Rise To The Top. : Marketing will become “Experiential”. The category “Digital Agencies” will gain new meanings and power as client demand thought leadership in this innovation-driven environment. Roster agencies based on channel will become redundant as clients look to task based allocation of accounts, covering disciplines and channels. Ad agencies realize the need to change from creating ads to creating experiences but need to team up with innovation strategists.

Innovation and Design Rules. Marketers’ ingenuity will continue to expand as the competitive marketplace challenges brands and even business survival. Efficiency has reached its limit and innovation is the new competitive advantage. Companies will turn to “design” and “design thinking” to help fuel innovation There is no turning back — and design will rule.

Anyone else from a digital agency have thoughts on the future role in strategy and innovation?

Filed under: Branding, Jamey Shiels, Marketing Trends, Miscellaneous