Yesterday, the world lost one of it’s greatest innovators.  When we heard that Steve Jobs passed away, none of us at Red Giant were unaffected. We all took time to reflect on the impact he left on the world and on each of us individually. Steve literally changed the way we communicate with each other and how we interact with technology. He also created a new standard in storytelling and branding – showing the world that communicating the benefits of a product is as important as designing them well.

I just wanted to share an email from Karen Gauthier, our Senior Product Manager, sent to the rest of the RG team:

As I rifle through my drawer of white earphones and a pile of white cables for the pile of ipods that are part of my household I can’t help but think about the impact that Steve and Apple have had on our every day lives. There was a time when Apple was an esoteric, elitist brand for “artists”. Something that only the pros used. Not so any longer.

My kids who are 7 and 9 don’t know any other way. They download apps, music, movies without thinking twice. They know the difference between browsing free apps and paid apps. They know itunes like the back of their hand. My son is saving for an itouch. His life won’t be complete until he has one. Their generation knows that Apple logo like we knew McDonalds in the 70′s.  (for all you youngsters, it was a big deal in the 70′s. You saw those Golden Arches and almost teared up with anticipation)

Anyhow, I’m saddened by this news.  He made an impact and was an inspiration.  As software designers I think one of the things we can learn from Steve is his philosophy of making products that were at the intersection of art and technology.  I think Red Giant embraces this philosophy and I love being part of it.

Have a good night everyone.

-karen

By the way, I read Karen’s email (as well as the news that Steve had passed) on my iPhone, just as I lay down to bed. It’s the same phone that wakes me up every morning, and from which I email and tweet throughout the day. Sometimes it’s subtle, and sometimes it’s in your face, but there’s no arguing it: Steve’s legacy is with us from the moment we wake up until the moment we go to sleep. He will be missed.

Tags: Apple, Steve Jobs