Tools of the Trade is a new AgencySpy feature to help highlight the many tools that help make advertising and marketing folks successful. The tools can be anything that helps you perform at your top form, from your favorite drafting table to your best software program to a lucky pen, a vintage typewriter or a pair of headphones.
Next up is David “DJ” Jackson II, senior content producer at independent agency Mower in Buffalo.
David ‘DJ’ Jackson poses with his trusted stylus pen.
What is one tool you use all the time at work—and how does it inspire your work?
One tool I use all the time at work is my stylus pen. As an editor and animator, I work with a lot of powerful technology and software, spending way too much time studying various screens and menus. My stylus pen is the one piece of technology that I don’t have to think about using.
Tell us why it’s your favorite.
I use my stylus pen in place of a mouse to interact with my computer. It’s much faster and is less stress on my hand and wrist. Though I may be reviewing footage or animating 3D objects, it always feels like I’m drawing—and it’s a great fidget tool for when I’m thinking. It’s become such an extension of me, I sometimes forget to put it down when I leave my work space—and I’m lost without it. No, seriously, I can’t work without it—so it’s very stressful when I misplace it.
How did you acquire your tool or hear about it for the first time?
Most creatives use a stylus and tablet for digital drawing. It wasn’t until a talented illustrator I worked with told me about the amazing world of using a stylus full time across all software, that I realized how life changing it was. I smile a little easier, food tastes better and I can’t wait for Mondays.
How does it help you be successful?
I use a lot of technology—and it can be overwhelming, whether I’m trying to figure out what medium is best for the creative task at hand or flying through eight different types of software to complete a project. The stylus not only helps me navigate but I don’t have to think about using it. It feels like an extension of myself and therefore an extension of my imagination. It’s where ideas meet final renders.
Does it have sentimental value?
I’ve been lucky enough to avoid it at this point of my career, but I’m sure if I were to misplace it long enough, I would be brought to tears. So no, you cannot borrow it.
Do you think your tool could go TikTok viral? Why or why not?
Anyone who has experience with social media knows there’s no telling what could go viral. There’s a shell with googly eyes with a feature film; I’m sure my stylus could earn a few hundred thousand likes.
We want to know what tools you use to make you successful. If you’d like to contribute or know someone who would want to be featured in Tools of the Trade, contact kyle.obrien@adweek.com and fill out our survey.