12/14/09

isgossipgirlnewtonight:

NO.

FUCK

My Open Letter to Jon Iwata

tillyer:

Dearest Jon Iwata,

You probably don’t remember but about a year ago we were both in Chicago for a conference called “The Future Leaders.” You spoke. I ate. We had a few minutes of nice conversation and then you sat down next to me. Someone whisked you away laughing nervously “Oh no Jon, that is the designer — we have another table here for you.” It tickled me. I already knew how clever you are but after our encounter I quickly, genuinely liked you as a person.

Since meeting you and hearing you speak I’ve often thought “Hmm, IBM” and/or “Wow, IBM.” You must know I pledged to Apple through and through for my personal and professional life. But it is IBM that makes my jaw drop lately.

Why? Because of the bar you’ve set to LEAD with communication. You are making your company pro-active rather than reactive. You create a clear message; “Smarter Planet,” you engage us in a goal; “Let’s Make” and you enable design that is abstract and in itself very smart. What a beautiful recipe.

Furthermore, when so much is collapsing it brings hope and joy to our hearts to see the happy little IBM planet. Imagine a dark cold drizzly night in Manhattan when everything has beaten you down and then you look up and see a cab brightly lit with the IBM cheery planet. It makes me smile every time.

You’ve set a great example Jon Iwata. I like writing and saying your name too. Thank you for being brave when I am sure CEOs and Stockholders said “NO! TOO DARING! TOO BOLD! MICROSOFT HAS A LITTLE GIRL!” Yet ultimately you have reclaimed the IBM legend and empowered your brand.

Much Love,

Jessica Tillyer

PS. Non-Format is one of my favorite design firms EVER. Did you personally reach out to them? You have good taste.