Original illustration by Dan Linginfelter
Not long ago we posted a blog about the architect Frank Lloyd Wright, noting that his approach to home design doesn’t quite translate to website design. On one hand, it’s kind of crazy that we’re still talking about someone who has been gone nearly 55 years. On the other hand, there is a reason his designs are still studied worldwide: his creative genius was extraordinary.
But I have to admit something about Frank Lloyd Wright: I have a strong distaste for him as an individual.
Personally, I love Frank Lloyd Wright’s work and believe in his brilliance. I’ve spent a good amount of time and money seeking out his structures and I have yet to be disappointed. But there is one problem that comes along when you study Frank Lloyd Wright. It’s difficult to separate his spectacular designs from his less-than-spectacular behavior.
The other side of the story
In case you don’t know about the other side of the story, I’ll summarize for you: Running off with a client’s wife; alleged abuse of apprentices, students, and even his own children; taking advantage of clients and friends financially; self-absorbed mannerisms. Okay, I’ll stop there. But trust me – there’s more.
As an outside observer, I ask the question: How could a man of this caliber behave in such unethical ways?
As a business owner, I think I know the answer: He didn’t surround himself with people of integrity.
Integrity protects and perseveres
As I described in the blog post about OSD's humble beginnings, we didn’t have much when we started OSD in 1983. But we did have a clear vision of our goal: do good work with good people. That’s still the case today.
Integrity is the foundation upon which OSD’s employees, business partners, clients, and vendors continue to thrive. That’s the great thing about integrity: when you’re surrounded by it, you can’t help but be a good person yourself.
Perhaps that’s what was missing for Frank Lloyd Wright. While he gained fame for upsetting the norm, he didn’t build a strong network of supporters.
We at OSD certainly aren’t perfect. No one is. But it seems that the relationships we’ve built are stronger than any building Frank ever designed. That’s the value of integrity.
-Ling
