Main Content

  • I was inspired by this article on how reading can improve your life in so many ways.
  • If you’re struggling to fit it in, reading can fill in the gaps in your day, it can brighten up the commute no end.
  • One member was drawn back to reading when they completed their masters. Encouraged by tutors to read around the subject to develop a unique perspective; this has stood them in good stead and now shapes the way they write and structure arguments with the audience in mind. 
  • It’s important to share articles with your team if you want them to think more strategically.
  • To the question of where to find books, asking for recommendations on Twitter or Linkedin works for some, or looking at the bibliography of a book you’re reading for wider reading on that subject.
  • We were joined by Theresa Destrebecq, Founder at Emerge Book Circles who shared how she works with organisations and leaders to delve deeper into a book. She facilitates deeper learning and as a group, they spend time integrating the ideas within their business. 
  • Another member shared insight into how a recommendation from a teacher to read quality fiction, broadsheets, periodicals and journals transformed their life after a late dyslexia diagnosis.
  • Similar to when you start designing and you’re encouraged to surround yourself with quality creative, this dedication to reading has improved the quality and rhythm of their writing – yes there might still be spelling mistakes but the composition of the piece is much more thoughtful.

Our Members’ Forum takes place on the first Monday of each month, at 4 – 5pm. If you would like to attend, get in touch here

Our next members forum will be taking place on Monday 5 September.

DBA Member Forum | March Summary


At our March DBA Member Forum, we turned a lens on positioning, as three agency leaders shared how they’ve sharpened and stress-tested their design business’ point of difference.

06/03/2026


News


Read more >>

DBA Roundup


A roundup of industry expertise, exclusive resources, business support and tools for your design business.

25/02/2026


News


Read more >>

In Focus: Where agency margins are won – or lost in delivery


DBA Expert Manish Kapur looks at two places where design agencies tend to lose margin and why small changes can make a noticeable difference.

11/02/2026


News


Read more >>

In Focus: Staff cost to fee income ratio


DBA Expert Mike Almandras explores a key metric you should be looking at to set your design business up to be profitable.

11/02/2026


News


Read more >>

In Focus: The people story behind the numbers


DBA Expert Aliya Vigor-Robertson explains why the latest sector data reveals something most agencies are missing: the financial pressure we're seeing isn't just a finance story. It's a people one.

11/02/2026


News


Read more >>

Design events calendar


There are many industry events held every year to enrich your team and business. We've compiled a snap-shot of what's coming up.

10/02/2026


News


Read more >>

DBA Member Forum | February Summary


Our February DBA Member Forum brought together four DBA expert perspectives on the DBA In Focus benchmarking report, drawn from real member data.

09/02/2026


News


Read more >>

The Design Effect 2026: Speakers


Exploring and celebrating the impact of design Uncovering design’s role in a changing world – talks, debates, case studies and...

21/01/2026


News


Read more >>

DBA Member Forum | January Summary


The first DBA Member Forum of 2026 brought together a wealth of peer-led insight on the realities of working internationally.

16/01/2026


News


Read more >>

12-months of Forums: All wrapped up


The monthly DBA Member Forums are the heart and soul of the DBA. They epitomise the shared learning ethos of the organisation. Here are a few which particularly stood out in 2025, along with a snapshot of all the conversations this year.

17/12/2025


News


Read more >>