At the beginning of every project, we get the same question from our clients (well, almost every time): "What takes the longest?"

The answer? The content.

We know you have it in your annual reports, grant applications, brochures and yearbooks, on your current website, and a million other places.

We know you've probably taken 12,000 pictures of your stakeholders, consumers, donors and, if you’re like us, your pets.

And we know that you know your organization better than anyone else does.

But we also know that it takes 2-3 times as long to synthesize that information into the lovely Content Collection Template (that we provide) as you think it’s going to. Even if you’re sure you’re being realistic, it still takes longer. And, then, there’s the big thinking around what you want to put there, where to cut and what to flesh out, and always the big question: What goes on the home page?

You could get pasty like a programmer in the dark from all that staring at the computer.

Now, if you've been through a project with us, you know that that's what we're here for... to help you.

We help you think about whether you want 10 pages under your programs and services, or if maybe it's a good place to implement an accordion or some tabs.

We do brainstorming with you about what should go on the home page, talk to you about how to manage the 20 departments who all want their stuff on the home page RIGHT NOW, and help you come up with the right stuff to put your best foot feet forward.

We can even help you do the writing, too, if you'd like. We have content writing and editing services... but you still have to do some of the heavy lifting. We can interview you (and whomever else you deem appropriate), read your collateral, your yearbooks, and your grant applications. In the end, though, you’re the one with the powerful red pen.

Is it worth it all? Without question.

Just look at our new website... months and months and months in the making (we're clearly our own most challenging client critic), but it's finally here, and it's beautiful, and we think you're going to love it. Not just because there's more kids and pets to check out (it's amazing how popular these pages are) but because it's well organized, succinct, and tells you what you need to know (plus some stuff we think you'll want to know.) Did I mention it’s pretty? (Three cheers for the design team!)

What's my point? Content-gathering is a painful process, for everyone. But we'll make it hurt a bit less, help you get out there to do the critical work of your organization (and leave the geekery to us), and maybe get some sun on your face.