Wilson's Republic Conference: The Business of Design

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As part of the Business of Design part of the Wilson's Republic Conference, we heard from Lesley Gulliver who works for the Engine Room Huddersfield. The talk was about The Engine Room, the Design Council, and Design within Business. 

Lesley’s intense focus on strategic objectives and her results-driven approach have enabled her success in building major corporate brands and launching new ones. Lesley is interested in measurable returns and understands ‘brand’ regarding impact, growth, service development and culture change, benefiting both our clients and The Engine Room. She is also one of a small number of Design Associates for the Design Council - the national strategic body for design. 

Lesley started by talking about how we put a price on our work. It is something that I am interested learning about when it comes to possibly working for myself and having my own freelance business. We then spoke about the Impact of Design and how measuring impact can come through turnover, profitability and profit growth. We also learned about how to handle a pitch situation. We also learned the importance of client relationship and to sell the idea of graphic design and how it will make a difference to their company. Lesley broke down the concept of a pitch situation: 
  • show off your work
  • change conversation - business
  • impact of design
  • be taken seriously 
  • return on design investment 

Lesley then spoke about Measurement and Partnership. She mentioned that it is essential to outset your objectives and the need for your service. It is also necessary to investigate the client and why they should invest in your design. Lesley mentioned that doing this will impact both sides of the equation. 

Lesley finished the talk by talking about staying grounded and while ego is important, staying grounded in the work you do and remembering your roots is a vital part of you as a designer. Summarising this whole talk based on the conference theme and idea left everyone with a fascinating afterthought. 

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