The Yard Creative

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

There’s unanimous satisfaction at all levels of our organization: from C-level executives in our firm to the people who were directly involved in the project. We could really see the input versus output; everybody’s happy with the quality of their delivery.    

How did The Yard Creative perform from a project management standpoint?

They were professional, direct, efficient, and communicative. They answered any questions we had, continually asked us for feedback, and continually integrated that feedback. About 80% of the time, we communicated via email, but we also spoke on the phone.  

With other agencies, we could express that we want something done a particular way and repeat it 3–4 times, and it still wouldn't be done that way. The Yard Creative went precisely in the direction that we asked for and provided appropriate suggestions. The outcome was a very good balance between what the client wanted and what they advised.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their friendliness and customer-oriented friendly behavior were great. They’re very welcoming and interact with you like you’re a true partner.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can’t really think of anything. I’d recommend them to consider taking on more foreign projects. They could expand their inhouse team to have wider language proficiency. Our documents were well done in English and German, but it wouldn’t be bad if they had more of a multilingual team.  

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

Have a good kickoff call at the beginning, for context—ours lasted between 60–90 minutes. We also sent them a lot of documents to help them understand the scope of the project. That establishes a good foundation, and it’s easier to proceed from there.

It’s also important to maintain consistent communication. Define and consolidate your points of contact, so you’re not bombarding them with different messages and emails.

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

I had a vision of what I wanted the brand to look like and who our target audience was. They translated the vision in my head to a brand that was well-received in the market. They gave us focus and executed the brand strategy. We’ve had lots of positive feedback and people saying the design looks cool. It’s transformed my business for the better.

Whenever we make any type of content, the design captures the essence of the brand. For example, the new brand had a viral video over the summer with six million views worldwide.

How did The Yard Creative perform from a project management standpoint?

They’ve done really well. The whole process is effectively organized. It was very open the whole time. I could always pick up the phone and speak to anyone if I had questions. They’re very patient and open to ideas we had. They did a good job of challenging us and trying to refine our thoughts on the design. Every time we met with them, we got full documentation and outlines of what happened.

Communication occurred via phone and email. We’ve met in person for lunch or I’ve gone into their offices to meet in person. They are very responsive to our needs. I never need to push them for anything.

What did you find most impressive about them?

From the first time I met with them, they gave me time and attention. I started with a very small business, smaller than the clients they typically work with. I met with the founder for a long time. We had a long meeting and they really paid attention. This was before I even signed up as a client. Both of us wanted a long-term working relationship.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I don’t have anything.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Have a very clear idea of what you want to achieve in your head. You should also be open to listening to their ideas. I trusted them and it’s worked out very well.

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

They produced a concept for a workspace that connects to a broader cultural movement that the city of London as a body is trying to propagate. I tasked The Yard Creative with creating a workspace concept, look, feel, and vibe that would tie into that and would make government officials, stakeholders, and institutional bodies get behind our development. The early returns are promising, as their brand work is front and center within our planning proposal.

How did The Yard Creative perform from a project management standpoint?

We mostly communicate via phone calls and emails, and they’ve been very easy to get ahold of and work with. The Yard Creative has been very engaging and interactive with us. They often go above and beyond to stretch themselves to meet deadlines, which are subject to change.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They don’t overload themselves with clients so that they can bring keen insights to each project. The Yard Creative approached our project with a completely fresh mind after having never worked on creating a hotel brand before. They come across as people who are trying to do real work and aren’t trying to become a branding factory. They dig deep for their projects, and their approach to research sets them apart.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, they have been competent in every respect.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Give them as much information as you can, and don’t try to rush them. When they’re allowed to take their time, their work can make a huge difference.