We bridge the gaps between humans at work

Our work enables companies to work on strategy with clarity and focus, saving time and money whilst really supporting the humans in the workplace. We give companies a clear and objective picture that helps with leadership, internal comms, recruitment, innovation, well-being, induction and the broader short and long term strategy.

Hidden in plain sight

We use an inquisitive process to study the workplace that is based on rigorous research methods. We use photography, interviews and observation to hold up a mirror to the way people live and work. We do this to shed new light on old habits, cultural things that have become ingrained and no longer serve their intended purpose, things that are invisible because they are passed everyday, and things that are automatic. We hold up a mirror so that companies can see the thick detail of their everyday work life that is often hidden in plain sight.

Helping companies notice things

The value is in unearthing all the beliefs, behaviours and values that make up a company's culture. The implication is that once the culture is understood, meaningful choices can be made about what can be done.

Find out more about Fieldwork

How

Our research is highly versatile, and can provide extremely rich insight into ‘real life’ practice.  Our studies can vary notably in focus – they can be company-wide, or aim at a particular department or small group of people.

The objectives can range from very broad, to gauge culture, to very specific, focusing on particular issues.

We specialise in research and telling stories about what it is like to live and work in a particular company, stories about what people do, bringing people a closer, fresher look at the actual experience of working life.

We've designed a self documentation kit full of mini assignments to help workers see life with beginner's eyes. The kit contains a disposable camera with 27 exposures and an assignment book with 27 prompts to inspire people to find the invisible and automatic in their life.

The data derived from our research is rigorously analysed, drawing connections between different patterns and behaviours observed. The ultimate goal of ethnographic research is to develop an understanding of the meaning of the behaviours, objects, environments, social interactions, beliefs, values, and communications observed.

At the end of our analysis, we deliver a full report detailing the current status of work.

Read more about a recent piece of work for Abel & Cole.