About Transparent Design
From brand identity and websites to apps, SaaS and even print, we don't just make things that look good - we make things that work.
Our story
Transparent is a small digital design and development agency based in York, North Yorkshire.. Though it was established in 2009, Lucy and Mike first met at university in 1997 and have been working together ever since. After both graduating with first-class honours degrees in Interactive Design in 2000, we went on to work in London agencies and at the BBC before moving into freelance work.
We love working with a wide range of businesses to improve their websites, systems, design and overall user experience. From Merseyrail using our facilities management system, to undertaking 26 website usability audits for SMEs via the York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub, there aren’t many industries we haven’t worked in.
Our services include SaaS design and build, bespoke and WordPress websites, game development, graphic design, and UI/UX design.
Over the years, we’ve worked with hundreds of businesses across different sectors and of all sizes. We adapt to what you need, and where a project calls for it, we bring in trusted specialists, from copywriters to SEO experts, to make sure everything is covered.
Our values
User focussed
We create intuitive, accessible digital experiences that not only look good, but genuinely work for your business.
Can-do attitude
Got a tricky brief? Perfect - we like a challenge. If it’s possible, we’ll make it happen. If not, we’ll find another way.
Innovative
Not stuck in our ways, we stay current, keep learning and explore new tech and concepts to bring you the best outcome.
Reliable
We deliver what we say we will - on time, on budget and often exceeding expectations.
Quality obsessed
We care about the details. We take the time to get things right and won’t launch something unless we, and you, are proud of it.
Trusted by our clients
We’ve built long-term relationships with the people we work with and we’d love you to be one of them.
And above all… transparent
We offer honest advice, clear communication, and a collaborative process from start to finish.
Why Work With Us
- We design and build digital products your customers will actually want to use.
- We never cut corners or settle for "good enough".
- We solve the problems that make other people sweat.
- We prefer bespoke over off the shelf - because "one size fits all" rarely fits anyone.
- We're transparent, straight-talking, and refreshingly easy to work with.
- We learn what we need to, when we need to. New tech doesn't scare us.
- We're a small team, but mighty - and completely invested in the success of every project.