Making the Case for Continuous Improvement with Terence Mahone of Farfetch
About this Episode
Summary
Joining Daniel on the show this week is Terence Mahone of Farfetch. When Terence took on his role at Farfetch, the directive was simple: Go out and create a culture of continuous improvement. We talk about the need for senior leaders to be willing to build the structures that can allow ground up engagement and idea generation. We also talk about the importance of fluency around a directive, and how understanding the language can help prevent fear or doubt in your teams.
Key Takeaways
- The best implementations of continuous improvement starts the process with the ground level team, but senior leadership has to be on board to build the structures and create the environment.
- Fluency in the process is important. You can assuage fears by teaching your teams the language.
- Listen to learn. As a manager, listen to learn, invite your directs to speak freely and listen to learn.
- Work to ask questions in a way that doesn't feel like a deflection.
- The words we use and our tone of voice matters when it comes to getting buy in for ground up idea generation.
- Build a system to quantify the effect of process improvements, and provide meaningful feedback.
Links & Resources
Continuous Improvement - Kaizen
Glossary
5 Whys - A root cause analysis technique to determine the root cause of a given problem and help identify a solution. Read more here.
Gemba Walk - The action of going to see the actual process, understand the work, ask questions, and learn. Read more here.
Credits
Produced by: Creative Force - creativeforce.io
Edited by: Calvin Lanz Sound - clsound.net
Hosted by: Daniel Jester - danieltjester.com
Recent Episodes from The E-commerce Content Creation Podcast
Flash Back: Josie Diamond at Henry Stewart London 2023
AMA with Professor Jester
Summary
In this episode of the E-commerce Content Creation Podcast, host Daniel Jester brings a personal touch by inviting three of his students and teaching assistants from his product photography class at Art Center College of Design. The episode offers a rare glimpse into the educational journey and aspirations of budding photographers within the commercial and creative fields. Alejandra, Sion, and Timothy share their experiences, backgrounds, and what drives their passion for photography. From Sion's transition from street to product photography, Alejandra's use of photography as a healing tool, to Timothy's exploration of film, each story adds a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of image creation.
Key Takeaways
*Diverse Backgrounds Lead to Unique Perspectives: Students from different terms and specializations bring varied insights into the photography and creative process.
*Education Plays a Crucial Role: The structured learning and exposure to real-world photography techniques at Art Center highlight the importance of education in shaping creative professionals.
*Passion Drives Learning and Growth: Each student's journey underscores the significant role passion plays in pursuing and excelling in photography, whether it's through overcoming personal challenges or exploring new genres.
*The Importance of Practical Experience: Hands-on experience, whether through class projects or real-world applications, is invaluable for understanding and mastering photography techniques.
*Networking and Exposure are Key: Daniel's mentorship and the discussion around getting into the industry emphasize the importance of networking, building relationships, and continuously seeking opportunities to learn and grow.
Credits
Hosted by: Daniel Jester - danieltjester.com
Live on LinkedIn: Henry Stewart, 3D, and more!
Summary
In this episode, Daniel discusses the upcoming Henry Stewart Photo Studio Operations event and highlights the theme of change in the event agenda. He explores the potential impact of AI and 3D in creative content production, emphasizing the power of 3D to transform the industry. Daniel reviews several sessions from the event, including discussions on shifting perspectives, embracing a talent-first mindset, and the boundary between creativity and production. He also discusses the sustainability benefits of 3D in product photography and the future of 3D models in product design and production. The episode concludes with a call for future guests on the podcast.
Key Takeaways
- The Henry Stewart Photo Studio Operations event focuses on the theme of change in the industry, highlighting the need to adapt and evolve in response to technological advancements.
- AI and 3D have the potential to revolutionize creative content production, offering new possibilities for efficiency, creativity, and sustainability.
- Sessions at the event explore topics such as shifting perspectives, embracing a talent-first mindset, and the balance between creativity and production in commercial photography.
- The use of 3D models in product design and production can lead to more sustainable practices and enhanced customer experiences.
Credits
Hosted by: Daniel Jester - danieltjester.com
Just a Couple of First Term Photo Instructors with Dan Urbano
Summary
In this episode, Daniel Jester and Dan Urbano discuss their experiences teaching photography classes and the challenges they faced. They reflect on the importance of understanding the needs and knowledge levels of their students and adjusting their teaching accordingly. They also discuss the focus of their classes, including the importance of shooting product photography on white backgrounds and the role of software like Capture One. The conversation leads to a deeper exploration of personal artistic expression and the changing perception of creativity in today's society. The episode concludes with a reminder of the crucial role that imagery plays in e-commerce.
Takeaways
- Understanding the needs and knowledge levels of students is crucial for effective teaching.
- Teaching product photography should focus on shooting on white backgrounds and understanding software like Capture One.
- Personal artistic expression should be valued and nurtured, even within a commercial photography career.
- Creativity is increasingly seen as an asset in various fields, driving a new artistic Renaissance.
- Investing in creative teams and imagery is essential for successful e-commerce.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Teaching Experiences
03:12 Teaching Challenges and Lessons Learned
14:24 Defining the Focus of the Photography Class
23:11 Reflection on Personal Career and Artistic Expression
30:52 Creativity and Artistic Renaissance
38:52 Closing Thoughts on Creativity and E-commerce
Credits
Produced and Hosted by: Daniel Jester - www.danieltjester.com
Niche Down! with Caydie McCumber
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and LinkedIn
03:06 Niche Down in Photography
08:30 Defining the Niche
10:10 Choosing the Niche
14:45 Finding Clients in the Niche
17:43 Underrepresentation of Men in Portfolios
19:23 The Value of E-commerce Photography
25:23 Photography as a Job vs. Creative Fulfillment
28:08 The Anxiety of Shooting
29:37 The Emotional High of a Successful Shoot
30:27 Balancing Efficiency and Fun in Studio Shoots
30:52 Managing Time and Production on Set
35:00 Building a Creative Community
43:00 The Importance of Investing in Creative Teams
48:00 Exploring the Future of E-commerce Photography
Credits
Produced and Hosted by: Daniel Jester - www.danieltjester.com
What the &%@$ Happened Last Year? Plus 2024 Predictions
Credits
Produced and Hosted by: Daniel Jester - www.danieltjester.com
Empathy, Vulnerability, and a Great Portfolio with Kelly Garthwaite
Credits
Produced and Hosted by: Daniel Jester - www.danieltjester.com
The Holiday Gift Guide Is Dead with Lauren and Suzy
Credits
Produced and Hosted by: Daniel Jester - www.danieltjester.com
A New Chapter
Credits
Produced and Hosted by: Daniel Jester - www.danieltjester.com