One of the most meaningful parts of my work as a designer is partnering with people to bring their vision to life – thoughtfully, strategically and beautifully. With more than two decades in the industry and the past ten years here at MurphyEpson, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate on everything from major public awareness campaigns to grassroots initiatives that make a lasting difference in Ohio communities.
Throughout it all, one thing has remained true: the best work comes from strong partnerships built on mutual trust and open communication.
Listening Beyond the Brief
Some of the partners I work with come to the table with a well-defined vision. Others may have a general direction or they’re still exploring what’s possible. Wherever we begin, my first step is always the same: listen closely and ask the right questions.
Good design doesn’t start with assumptions – it starts with understanding. I aim to grasp not just the immediate deliverables but the deeper goals behind them. What message are we trying to communicate? Who are we trying to reach? What impact do we want to make?
Those early conversations shape everything that follows.
Welcoming the Unexpected
As with any collaborative process, creative projects can evolve in unexpected ways. Priorities may shift. Feedback may lead us in a new direction. These moments aren’t setbacks – they’re part of the journey.
Over the years, I’ve learned to welcome these shifts as opportunities to better understand what matters most to our partners. Whether I’m helping to visually interpret a smart mobility campaign like Smart Columbus, simplifying the message behind a water infrastructure initiative like Blueprint Columbus or building excitement around public transit through a fun social media series for Akron METRO, I stay open to new perspectives while grounded in the shared vision.
Exploring Possibilities
One of the ways I foster collaboration and maintain space for thoughtful creativity is by presenting multiple design directions early in the process. Offering a few options helps turn abstract ideas into something tangible. It invites conversation and helps us refine our path forward together.
I’ve found that this approach often uncovers something even stronger than what either of us imagined at the start. It’s about expanding the possibilities while always honoring the purpose.
Work We're Proud to Share
At the end of the day, my goal is simple: to create work that reflects the heart of the project and makes both me and my partner proud. Design should do more than just look good – it should work hard, tell a compelling story and support real impact.
I’m grateful for every opportunity to collaborate with partners who trust me to bring their vision to life. When we land on something that feels just right – for the audience and the people behind it – that’s the moment that makes it all worthwhile.
