Similar process, different office…
Order, order, order!
Order, process — all things that sing to us account folks. They also sing to Germans… and German account folks. After being here for about 2 weeks now, I have noticed that Germans are always on time, always organized, always asking questions, and always wanting to do more than what is asked. The overall standard processes and structure of the agency is similar to back at home. Same project steps and looping in the correct colleagues when they are needed, etc. In that regard, it has been easy for me to step in and assist when needed, because the next step seems to be pretty standard.
There are, however, some differences…
Communication Validation Tools:
Every creative concept is vetted through communication tools (e.g. S.I.M.P.L.E., S.W.A.T., S.O.A.P., etc.) — these may sound familiar from college, but it is actually being practiced here, which is interesting.
No Project Managers:
The account folks are also the project managers and they do not have different titles for this. The project management responsibilities are apart of being an account manager! Busy, busy!!
Air conditioning:
There is no air conditioning here, which is tough for me with the hot summer days. Apparently it is a norm within Germany and it can only really be found in newer public buildings or offices.
Smoking:
Needless to say, many Germans enjoy a good cigarette break. I don’t indulge, however, I find myself going outside with them for the social aspect :).
Das Briefing:
The main takeaway in regards to briefs and how they are compiled here vs. back at home, is simplicity. This is something we always strive for, but on the particular client I am on here, they really have mastered a simple, 1-page brief. An easy, digestible take away for the creatives to have for reference after a kick off and not be confused by too much upfront (my Creative Director back home would be applauding). The main focus on every brief, no matter where you are in the world, is the key communication takeaway — what is the challenge/problem, and how are we going to solve it as our client’s agency?
Overall, the Dusseldorf office is very traditional when it comes to order, process and office structure. I think once the open concept office is adapted here in the next year, it will inspire more creativity that each of the Havas Villages all over the world are gearing toward — sehr gut.
Auf Weidersehen!
