AdWeek just published an article about how agencies are adapting to leverage the best ways to connect with consumers while saving money. Sounds crazy/impossible but it's happening. You can read more, but the thing we think is most important about all of this is that it brings more focus on the strategic, thinking part of design. If more of the clients (within our profession) begin to view our greatest value at the strategic, thinking level, everyone benefits. Clients engage us sooner, at the right stage and the results will be much stronger. Agencies will have the information they need to do their best thinking and work, as well as the motivation that stems from feeling like a true partner. Short term, budgets might be incrementally smaller, but the long term benefits of a deeper, more strategic relationship will be a tide that "raises all the boats." tags: catalyst studios, minneapolis, minnesota, design, graphic design, interactive, catalyst,