M-A-D ~ mission

Philosophy
M-A-D is an interdisciplinary design agency with primary expertise in branding and visual communications. Our experience is based on 20 years of ongoing discovery, innovation and collaboration with our clients.
• • The M-A-D core team is responsive and flexible. We solve diverse design and communication problems across a broad range of industries and media. Thanks to a pool of contributing experts we are able to adapt to most challenges. Our teaming strategy is scalable, economical and efficient.
• • Over the years we have held on to consistent design principles and business values while still embracing multiplicity of visual styles, points of view, techniques, influences & languages (we speak English, German, French). We value the collaboration and learning from our clients, consultants and peers. This cross-fertilization is often at the origin of exceptional solutions.

Methodology
Our methodology is based on a double process. One is the constant and rigorous tracking of objectives and means. The other is fluid and open, and involves a process that leverages past experiences and current explorations.
• • We have learned to manage a mix of voice, syntax and signs that is clearly branded and synergistic with business strategies. Deliverables can include iconography, narratives, information structures and complex design systems.

Achievements

Through respect, integrity and commitment to our clients, we have maintained long-term working relationships, often extending our contributions beyond our graphic design core expertise. Besides addressing immediate client concerns and needs, our work has continued to draw international recognition for its stylistic, conceptual and innovative contributions to the world of design.
• • The current challenge of design relies on the combination of research, strategy and technology. It also depends on our capacity to recognize, adapt to and exploit changes as they happen in society and in the worlds of our clients.

team

Erik Adigard: Twenty years of experience in design strategy, brand development and interactive media for startups and Fortune 100s. Side activities include teaching or writing assignments, major commissions from art and design institutions and advising for Adobe Systems and other organizations. He is a member of Alliance Graphique Internationale and American Institute of Graphic Arts.

Patricia McShane: Managing Director of brand and communications design. BFA in Graphic Design, California College of the Arts.

Primary collaborators:
architecture: Tim Rempel
Flash and video: Gregory Cowley
marketing strategy/copywriter: Steven Mason
media advisor: Mark Petrakis
product design: Herbie Pfeifer
sound design: Christopher Salter, Ph.D.
web technologies: Dave Granvold
web 2.0 strategy: Marc Dangeard

©2012, M-A-D ~ Erik Adigard + Patricia McShane