‘I like to live in and understand the gray’: The Archer Group’s Todd Miller on how he works

Todd Miller, Chief Experience Officer at Wilmington design agency The Archer Group, is a recognized character around the Delaware tech scene. Last year, Miller spoke at the Delaware Economic Summit about how he “lucked into digital design” and feels strongly about agency culture. We know what he stands for but what about his work process? How does he do it all? We’ll tell you how.

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What’s the first thing you do every day before doing any job-related work?
I like to jump into the day early, I’m up at 6 a.m. I work out or read and eat breakfast. Shower, dress, then check email and plan out my strategy for the day.
How often do you check your email, and do you use any program to get to ‘Inbox Zero’?
I’m on email consistently throughout the day (much to my wife’s chagrin). I have a simple organization process. My inbox is only for items I need to react to immediately or this week. The rest of my emails are organized into folders like budgets, follow-up soon, follow-up someday, important documents, personal, inspiration, team needs and goals, etc.
When you need to take a break, what are you turning to?
I get up and walk around and talk to people or follow-up on things I’m curious about. If I’m not doing that, I’m reading various blogs, web sites, etc. that talk about industry trends, new technologies or self help (I’m always in beta).
What’s a unique aspect of your work style?
I have a hard time focusing without cleaning up my inbox or desk. I like to get up and walk around and pace when I’m deep in thought. I ask a lot of questions and like to meet and hear from people. I know this world isn’t black and white, I like to live in and understand the gray.
What’s your gear?
Macbook Pro, iPhone, notebook, backpack. I like to travel light and pick the right accessories for the mission of the day.
What’s one way in which you believe your day-to-day work is better now than it has been? Is there something you do now (or don’t do) that you didn’t do before (or did) that has made a big difference?
I receive a ton of email, personal and professional. I was the king of 2,000+\- emails in my inbox at all times. Search was my best friend. I’ve been working hard to remove the clutter from my life and work habits so I can focus in on the important things each day.
What’s your preferred workday soundtrack? Do any particular artists/bands/genres boost your productivity?
I actually only listen to music on my way to and from work to clear my head. Music can be anything from Sinatra to Gwar to Skee-lo.