The more we get involved with Drupal, the more I begin to understand exactly what is meant by "Drupal Community." It's been exciting to see the growth we've had using Drupal and the working relationships we've established.
Other Drupal shops have sent projects our way and we've sent work to them when it made sense. I find the idea of agencies working together to accomplish more very intriguing. It's actually been very beneficial; in-fact, it's probably helped us gain access to some work that we wouldn't have landed otherwise. So, as you read this post, don't think I'm against working hand-in-hand for the greater good; I think that is needed. I simply want to open the conversation around this topic and get some feedback.
The growth of
Drupal and Drupal agencies over the past year has been unbelievable. In fact,
Ben Finklea, the
DrupalCamp Austin Keynote speaker, talked about the growth and how specific agencies are starting to carve out their niche. Personally, I think moving toward one area can really be a great differentiator, but as evidenced by Ben's talk, there are more and more agencies starting to play in the same niche. Since I'm a sports guy, I'll do a little sports comparison to illustrate what I mean.
As Drupal agencies, we may all be on the same team (Drupal) but no matter what, someone has to start and someone has to come off the bench. By that, I mean in any niche there's going to be a leader and a follower. Both players (agencies) are working toward being the best in their area, but there's a level of competition that pushes one out in front of the other, making that the starting player. In an ideal situation, both players feed off each other, sharpening and honing their skills in unison and become better together.
I bring up many of these points because at LevelTen, we've been reluctant to define where our niche lies; mostly because we've been trying to avoid rocking the boat. In reality, like it or not, our niche has started to define itself in the training and
SEO area. I think it's okay to say that because I feel there's enough work for more than one player in a niche. Hopefully, playing those same areas will make all of us better and sharper without letting go of that team spirit; even sharing the load when needed.
What are your thoughts? Should it be every man for himself or should agencies grow together?
Image Credit
