McCann Design’s de-siloing approach challenges the traditional agency model by integrating design across all aspects of their work.

Early in my career I opened a full-service advertising agency, which morphed into a design firm, which morphed into a brand and organizational strategy consultancy. So I took notice when New York's McCann Design started getting recognized for tearing down the walls between these disciplines.

""At McCann, design is not an afterthought. It’s not just there to make things look pretty or to dress up a deck at the end of a project. From day one, our goal has been to make design a true partner in the creative process. 

""We are becoming more visually driven, so design has become a necessity rather than a nice to have. It is crucial to a brand or agency’s success. Our team of about 20 designers is deeply embedded within the agency. They are present in every corner of our business, from new business pitches to social strategy.  

""'For us at McCann, design is about making things that challenge people to look twice, experience things deeper, and connect with brands in unexpected ways.'"" - Shayne Millington, chief creative officer

Article: De-Siloing Design: McCann Reimagines Collaboration in the Creative Process