The Netty Awards have recognized Format D as a nominee for Software Agency of the Year – Europe, highlighting their exceptional contribution to the digital ecosystem and their innovative approach to web development. Known for crafting tailored digital products and platforms, Format D sets itself apart through a unique internal culture, collaborative client partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to transparency and innovation. Their work spans across multiple industries, with a strong focus on creating scalable, user-centric web solutions that not only meet but exceed client expectations. This nomination underscores Format D’s pivotal role in shaping the digital future of Europe.
Innovation and Differentiation
What truly sets Format D apart is their innovative approach to both internal culture and client relationships. The agency thrives on transparency, open communication, and shared leadership, empowering employees and fostering a deep sense of ownership in every project. By sharing business figures and salary models, Format D has cultivated an environment where passion and accountability are at the forefront. This open culture allows for in-house execution, with no outsourcing, ensuring that projects are handled seamlessly from start to finish.
Beyond internal practices, Format D’s client relationships are grounded in long-term partnerships, often extending well beyond traditional service provider models. Their commitment to collaboration is evident through initiatives such as outdoor coworking events and annual workations that strengthen the bond between team members and clients. This emphasis on trust and mutual understanding has resulted in many clients working with Format D for over five years, reflecting the agency’s commitment to delivering lasting, impactful solutions. Their dedication to knowledge-sharing and contribution to the digital ecosystem, including their involvement with the Neos community and thought leadership in industry conferences, further sets them apart as a leader in web development.
Measurable Impact and Success
Format D’s work consistently delivers tangible, measurable results, impacting both their clients and the broader digital landscape. As contributors to the open-source Neos CMS, Format D has supported a European alternative that empowers both developers and content editors. Their expertise in creating scalable and intuitive platforms has earned them prestigious accolades, including the Neos Innovation & Excellence Award, as well as Red Dot and German Design Awards.
Their commitment to lasting societal relevance is reflected in projects for organizations such as the KZ Gedenkstätte Dachau, Genossenschaftsverband Bayern, and myHogast, among others. A particularly impactful collaboration was with Sammlung Goetz, where Format D developed a customized digital guide and launched their own product, Ways – an inclusive app solution for museums, events, and cities. The success of these projects, combined with their ongoing support for the Neos community, solidifies Format D’s position as a driving force in digital innovation. Their ability to foster long-term partnerships and contribute to the open-source ecosystem showcases their enduring impact on both clients and the digital world at large.
Creative Elements and Execution
Format D’s creative process begins with their Key Sprint methodology, a unique five-day immersion designed to align visions and create momentum with clients. This collaborative process kicks off with team-building and framing the project’s core challenges using “How Might We” questions. From there, the team dives into market insights, sketching sessions, and collaborative idea refinement, eventually producing a clickable prototype by day three.
This methodology, combined with agile development practices, allows Format D to maintain constant client collaboration and integration throughout the development process. Using a transparent SCRUM framework, they work closely with clients during focused two-week sprints, ensuring tasks are prioritized and refined as a team. The iterative approach, complete with reviews and retrospectives, ensures continuous progress and fosters a sense of ownership and shared purpose among both Format D’s team and their clients. This dynamic and transparent process results in web platforms that are not only functional but also user-centered and innovative.
Overall Excellence and Industry Advancement
Format D’s nomination for Software Agency of the Year – Europe reflects their long-standing commitment to digital excellence, collaboration, and innovation. With over 20 years of experience, they have shaped the digital presence of more than 200 clients across a range of sectors. Their interdisciplinary, cross-functional teams combine UX/UI design, robust development, and insightful data analysis to deliver cutting-edge digital products and platforms.
Beyond their client work, Format D is deeply engaged in advancing the digital ecosystem through open-source contributions, thought leadership, and continuous sharing of knowledge. Their work on the Neos CMS and other digital initiatives has played a key role in strengthening a European alternative in the CMS landscape. Format D’s ability to combine technological innovation with a collaborative culture and transparent processes has set new benchmarks in the industry. Their long-term client relationships and commitment to creating value in every project reflect their dedication to driving progress within the digital economy.
About Format D
Format D is a leading web development agency specializing in creating and maintaining websites, web platforms, and e-commerce sites. With a focus on transparency, collaboration, and innovation, Format D has established itself as a key player in the European digital landscape. Through their interdisciplinary teams and agile processes, they deliver exceptional digital products and solutions that empower their clients and drive sustainable growth.
About the Netty Awards
The Netty Awards are a prestigious awards program that honors top leaders and companies across various industries in the digital age. With over 100 unique categories and a longstanding track record as one of the most trusted organizations in the industry, the Netty Awards celebrate achievements in Design, Social Media, Influencers & Creators, Web, Advertising & PR, and Apps & Software. Recently featured in USA Today for their Top Agencies List, the Netty Awards are recognized as one of the most trusted agency directories for decision-makers.