The Work Department

The Work Department is an engagement, design, and strategy studio based in Detroit. Since its founding in 2010, the studio has focused on designing for connection, inclusion, and lasting change. They partner with a diverse range of clients, including nonprofits, philanthropic organizations, government entities, academic institutions, and corporations.

Their core services include stakeholder engagement, participatory design, and strategic planning. The Work Department emphasizes collaboration and community involvement, creating tools, visuals, and systems that help communities tell their stories and act together. They offer services such as asset mapping, engagement strategy, branding, visual identity, and program design.

The studio has worked on numerous projects, including branding and communications for the Allied Media Conference and developing a youth-centric neighborhood framework for Cody Rouge & Warrendale. Their approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, drawing on the diverse backgrounds of their team members to better serve communities.