What distinguishes design agencies or studios from ad agencies?

Design agencies or studios are distinguished by their focus on brand design and specialization in creating visual identities, user experiences, and design-centric solutions. They typically work on projects that require a deep understanding of aesthetics, usability, and user-centered design principles. This specialization allows them to craft tailored experiences and solutions that resonate with specific target audiences, emphasizing the importance of visual storytelling and emotional engagement.

In contrast, ad agencies usually focus on broader marketing strategies that include advertising campaigns across various media. They often provide comprehensive, one-stop solutions to meet a wide range of marketing needs, which can sometimes overshadow the design aspect. This fundamental difference in focus—design agencies honing in on the specifics of design and branding versus ad agencies encompassing a wider marketing approach—clearly sets them apart in the creative landscape.