A rectangular sign with the words "the composition collective" written in black, with "composition" underlined, on a white background with rounded corners.

We’re a product, design and live storytelling studio.

What We Do

We partner with mission-driven organizations to design and build positive products with tangible impact. Check out our recent work.

  • We help mission-driven teams turn early ideas into impactful products. Through a short discovery phase and focused design sprint, we deliver a working prototype and actionable roadmap within weeks.

  • We help early-stage startups and experimental journalism organizations launch new products, services and initiatives. Our recommendations are grounded in experience launching products at The Washington Post, The New York Times, McClatchy, Huge and more.

  • We design live experiences with a product mindset. Our events combine journalism, art and music to extend the impact of important stories beyond a single moment.

Clients

Have an idea?
Let’s make it real.

In two weeks or less, we partner to define your audience, shape your product strategy, build a working prototype and deliver a clear, actionable roadmap.

0→1 PRODUCT SPRINT

Product leaders

Explore a new idea with your team — time-boxed, no heavy investment in an unproven concept.

Startup founders

Test a new idea before committing to a big build. Walk away with something tangible and investor-friendly

Journalism nonprofits

You got the grant. Now you have to build it — whether that’s a new product or program. We’ll help you align your team and jumpstart the work.

Need help with ?

We match our clients with Collective experts to fill gaps and provide hands-on design, technology and content support. Collectivists don't just coach — they execute.

A woman with tattoos on her arm, wearing a sleeveless top, is pinning notes or sketches on a wall covered with similar papers, possibly working on a project or planning.

Recent Work

Thoughts from The Collective