A Quick Glance Back As We Prepare To Move Forward

It’s that time of year when we’re all frantically rushing to get everything done. Like many of you, amidst the holiday frenzy, we’re also planning for the new year. But, before we look forward to 2012, let’s take a look at a few things we hoped to achieve in 2011 and how we did:

1. Expanding client relationships. 2011 provided us with a great opportunity to work with many of our existing clients on a deeper level as well as partner with some fantastic new organizations. We’re definitely looking forward to expanding on this even further in 2012.

2. Increasing social media. If you had any doubts about the staying power of social media, 2011 certainly proved that it’s a communications platform that is here to stay. During 2011, we made a lot of new friends and fans and found new ways to share. Be sure to join us on Facebook and Twitter if you haven’t done so already and join in the conversation with us!

3. Growing our team. Just as in the prior year, Sylver continues to work with amazing talent. During 2011, we added Rebecca Kuchar as our Director of Global Insights + Innovation and had the opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the field of ethnography.

4. Networking with our local chamber of commerce. Throughout 2011, participation with our local chamber gave us some unique opportunities to connect with a wide variety of Chicago-area companies and contacts we hadn’t met before. We appreciated having access to the best and brightest minds in Chicago—and being able to take advantage of some exceptional services to support our business efforts.

5. Having some fun along the way. At Sylver, it’s not all about work. We held our first company retreat where we not only had a chance to brainstorm and make strategic plans but we also got to have some fun as a team.

It’s wonderful to review last year’s list and get a sense of satisfaction that we hit the mark on these 5 targets for 2011. Now it’s time we start looking forward. Here’s what we’re excited about for 2012:

1. Finding new spaces. With the expansion of our team and increase in our business across multiple sectors, it’s time for Sylver to find a new home. Be on the lookout for our new address in 2012. We’re working on securing a cool and innovative space that you’ll love to visit. See you there soon!

2. Adding more new faces. This year, we’ll be adding even more shiny faces to our team, so that we can continue to grow and offer unparalleled insights and strategies. Be sure to check our team page for updates!

3. Sending out more “Postcards.” Earlier this year, we launched a series of blog posts titled “Postcards from the Edge of Global Research,” in which our own Rebecca Kuchar shares her experiences managing qualitative research projects worldwide. Sylver is constantly expanding our global reach, so we definitely look forward to bringing you more during 2012! Click here for Rebecca’s latest blog post titled, “Oops, Gestures Gone Wrong in Backrooms Around the World.”

4. Connecting with the research and design community. During the last 12 months, Sylver has been featured at a variety of venues including UX Week 2011, QRCA meetings, and IIT ID. Over the next 12 months, we look forward to being a part of even more incredible industry functions.

5. Continuing the fun! Recharging our batteries helps us to keep our ideas fresh and our momentum going. We’re looking forward to some fun travels and experiences in 2012 and can’t wait to share our stories with you.
What are you excited about in 2012? We’d love to hear what’s on your list planning for the new year!

Categories: Announcements