Once upon a time, Google’s mantra was “Don’t be evil”, and Facebook championed “Build social value”. Today, as some of the world’s corporate giants quietly shred their commitments to diversity, equity and inclusion, it feels more important than ever to double down on who we are — not just as a business, but as a team with a special studio dynamic.
Another Colour has been around for 18 years, evolving from a hustling solo designer startup to a confident agency that knows exactly who we are and what we stand for. For years, our values were something we thought we ought to have. A polished list of virtues that looked good on a website and reassured clients they were in the right hands. But we’ve come to realise two key things:
1. We have the clarity and confidence to define non-negotiable values that guide every decision we make.
2. These values were already in our culture. They weren’t something to fabricate but something to uncover.
So, rather than hiring a consultant to write them for us and slap them onto our About page, we did something simpler.
The (surprisingly simple) process
We thought defining our values would be another painstaking exercise in wordsmithing and committee feedback. But last year, we set aside an hour before our Christmas party, met at a local café, and asked one simple question: “What is it about working here that you truly value?”
We took turns answering. No pressure or second-guessing. And to our surprise, everyone had a lot to say about how their experience at Another Colour was unique. It wasn’t forced. It wasn’t a struggle. It came easily. In about 20 minutes, we had a list of authentic values — and you could see pride and emotion in the faces around the table.
We merged values with similar themes and questioned the ones that sounded like those of other companies. But we didn’t stress over being completely original. This time, we didn’t focus on market differentiation or brand positioning. These values are in our DNA — why cut them just because another company might say something similar?
In the following days, Steve compiled our ideas into the first draft, and Aaron helped refine our values into a collection of easy-to-remember mantras. Arielle art-directed an illustration for each value. At the same time, our Mission and Vision were updated, using these values as a foundation.
These are our values. It doesn’t matter if you like them, because they’re not for you. They’re for us.
Design with purpose
Good design is timeless, accessible, and grounded in research and empathy. It transforms insights into tailored, beautiful solutions that work for everyone.
How we live it
Every project, no matter how small, has a research component. We believe in the power of good design and use it to empower our clients’ objectives. We are committed to making our work accessible to all.
Diversity drives us
Embracing individuality fuels our creativity. We champion inclusion and foster an environment where every voice is valued and every colour celebrated.
How we live it
As a team where every staff member belongs to at least one minority or underprivileged group, we realise that our commitment to diversity and inclusion isn’t just a bullet point — it’s personal. And it makes us stronger. We share holiday traditions, celebrate cultural milestones, and stay curious about life outside our personal bubbles.
Better together
Collaboration is where the magic happens. In an environment of shared knowledge and teamwork, we unlock limitless possibilities, showcasing the unique abilities of each team member to achieve our goals.
How we live it
Most projects start with brainstorming, and we encourage each other to speak up. We respectfully seek validation from one another. We conduct regular training sessions to foster a learning environment.
Powered by progress
We ride the wave of technological change, blending creativity with innovation to help shape an inspiring future.
How we live it
Our industry has evolved dramatically, and we embrace technology to stay ahead. Once a print studio, we now produce animated digital campaigns and even television ads. We share discoveries and continuously seek better ways to enhance our work. And yes, this blog post was proofed by ChatGPT and Grammarly.
Quiet voices, big ideas
When egos take a backseat, creativity flourishes. Every contribution is welcomed, and together, we share successes and embrace challenges, proving that humility sparks the best work.
How we live it
We listen. We don’t say “no” without offering an explanation. We recognise and promote each other’s wins, especially when someone is too humble to do so.
Empowered to succeed
Titles don’t limit us; we rise to every challenge and don’t need permission to achieve our goals.
How we live it
We all have our natural talents, but we’ve grown comfortable working beyond our comfort zones. We believe in ourselves and bravely face new challenges despite the barriers we may encounter.
Long-term value, always
Sustainability, trust, and accountability define us. We strive to deliver genuine, lasting value and nurture relationships that stand the test of time.
How we live it
The majority of our clients are repeat customers who have become our friends. They trust us as an extension of their team, and we take a genuine interest in their goals and industries. Our suppliers have supported us through tough times and that’s why we continue to support them.
These values aren’t just for show. They’re our blueprint for daily decisions, big and small. They guide how we interact with clients, shape our creative process, and support one another as a team. This is the foundation of how we show up — for each other, for our clients and for the world.