Philosophy

Our Problem Solving Ethos.

Design Studio Morgan was founded by a budding mathematician. This means that we are excellent at solving problems. It's in our DNA. 

Design Desk

Problems Are Fun To Solve

Design Studio Morgan, founded by Mathematician and Researcher Drew Schaffner, operates on a core philosophy centered around the application of mathematical thinking to business challenges. This philosophy extends beyond mere data analysis, shaping our approach to web design, IT solutions, and research projects.

The Big Idea

Math Is For Business

An Achilles Heel

Problems Are Pervasive

The Cherry On Top

A Solution Is Last

Trial And Error

The Myth Of Sisyphus

The Big Idea

Math is for Business

Mathematics is perceived as a tool for scientists, engineers and academics. This perception is valid. But the true power of mathematics lies in her limitless uses. Math provides a structured problem solving methodology that is profoundly applicable to the business world. At Design Studio Morgan, we believe this methodology can be used to navigate the problems you face day to day.  

This isn't just about crunching numbers. It's about leveraging the logical rigor, pattern recognition, and abstract reasoning inherent in mathematics. As Galileo Galilei stated, "Mathematics is the language in which God has written the universe." We extend that idea, suggesting that it is also a powerful language for understanding and shaping your business. This perspective influences how we approach web design (creating logical and user-friendly structures), IT solutions (developing scalable and efficient systems), and research projects (employing rigorous methodologies to derive meaningful insights). Mathematics provides the philosophical underpinning for our processes.

An Achilles Heel

Problems Are Pervasive

Problems are not isolated occurrences within a business; they are pervasive, often interconnected elements of a complex system. A problem in one area of a business's technology stack can create cascading effects, leading to inefficiencies and reduced productivity across multiple departments.

Consider a business where the customer relationship management (CRM) system is poorly integrated with the inventory management system. This seemingly isolated issue can lead to a chain of problems: inaccurate order fulfillment, delayed shipping, customer dissatisfaction, increased support requests, and ultimately, a decrease in overall productivity. While the business might be putting in more work, the effectiveness of that work is diminished. Recognizing this interconnectedness is crucial. We address not just the symptoms, but also the underlying issues in your system that result in .

The Cherry On Top

A Solution is Last

The conventional view often places the solution as the ultimate goal, the "be-all and end-all" of problem-solving. At Design Studio Morgan, we hold a different perspective. We view solutions as the final step in a process where the greatest value is often realized during the journey itself.

The process of problem-solving—the analysis, the research, the iterative testing—is where true efficiency is gained. It's in the careful dissection of a problem, the exploration of various approaches, and the deep understanding of the underlying dynamics that businesses discover opportunities for optimization. The final solution is, in essence, the "cherry on top" – the visible outcome of a much more valuable process. As Albert Einstein said, "It's not that I'm so smart, it's just that I stay with problems longer." This extended engagement with the problem, rather than a rush to a solution, is what yields the most significant benefits.

Trial And Error

The Myth of Sisyphus

The Greek myth of Sisyphus, condemned to eternally push a boulder uphill only to have it roll back down, offers a compelling metaphor for the nature of problem-solving. While the myth often symbolizes futility, we interpret it differently. The value is not in the (unattainable) final state of having the boulder at the top, but in the process of pushing.

In the context of business, each problem tackled, even if it leads to further challenges, provides an opportunity for learning, research, and growth. The knowledge gained in understanding the problem, exploring potential solutions, and adapting to setbacks is the true reward. The process is iterative, and each cycle contributes to a deeper understanding and refinement of our approach. The focus is not solely on achieving a single, permanent solution, but on the continuous improvement and learning that occurs throughout the problem-solving journey.