Problem
As a brand design focused independent agency, Jonathan Docksey has grown Design JD into a lean and profitable business, regularly taking on apprentices to expand capacity and pass on his skills and knowledge.
Forging strong relationships meant it wasn’t unusual for clients to ask for additional services and solutions that fell outside of their core capability. These could be anything from websites and social media to native mobile apps and interactive screen installations. Mindful of the potential pitfalls of growing the team too quickly, Jon was on the lookout for a different approach that meant he didn’t have to say “no” to any of his clients, and risk losing them to a larger agency.
“I remember first meeting Mike and thinking ‘that could come in useful’ when he first explained the Skills Hive model for collaboration. It wasn’t long before I was calling him up to make use of it. Now – it’s been a key part of our strategy for years.” – Jonathan Docksey, Founder
Solution
Having met Mike through face to face networking, Jon was confident that the Skills Hive collaborative model would work for him.
As the relationship blossomed over the years, Mike’s role as “Project Sidekick” was even formalised into “Head of Digital” to help Jon communicate the wider capabilities and secure even more work from new clients.
For years now, the virtual team has expanded and contracted as required to embrace and include a wide ranger of skills from the strategic to the specific, delivering value to dozens of clients as well as Design JD.
Success
Now celebrating 20 years in business, founder Jonathan Docksey is one of the worlds natural entrepreneurs, starting the agency while still studying for his degree in design.
Embracing the Skills Hive model has clearly helped de-risk his ambitions and secure the companies longevity, having partnered on projects to extend skills and expand capability over the last 10 years.
