On May 5, 2005 — Keith Scandone and Mike Gadsby founded O3 with a simple but ambitious goal: to transform digital experiences in a way that drives real business impact for organizations, their employees and customers.

This week, we celebrate 20 years of building—relationships, businesses, careers, and ideas. It’s a moment to pause, look back at the road we’ve traveled, and recognize the people and moments that got us here.

A two-decade evolution of experience

In 2005, the digital world was dominated by static websites and transactional interfaces. Back then, O3 saw an opportunity to elevate those touchpoints into journeys — to design with humans in mind, not just technology. But having three core pillars–design, technology, and marketing under one roof to help drive growth for our clients.

What began as a boutique brand communications firm has steadily evolved in step with the digital landscape. From our early days crafting brand narratives, we grew into an interactive agency, then a digital product agency, and today, a full-scale digital experience consultancy. O3’s evolution reflects not just our own growth, but the pace and scale of change in the digital world. That trajectory wasn’t always linear, and it certainly wasn’t easy. But through each phase, we stayed focused on the throughline: solving problems with empathy and imagination.

20 years, countless memories: Hear from the O3 team—past and present—as they reflect on what this milestone means.

The power of partnership

Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of collaborating with organizations across industries—from startups and nonprofits to global brands. We’ve helped launch new platforms, reimagine legacy systems, and introduce ideas that shape how people engage with the world around them.

But the real impact isn’t measured in deliverables. It’s in the trust built with our partners. The career growth of former teammates now shaping strategy at Google, Sonos, and beyond. The friendships formed through late nights, big wins, and shared purpose. The Philly neighborhoods we bet on before they were cool, and the community events—Forge, Innovation Day, Agency Field Day, 1682—that brought people together to dream a little bigger.

Voices from the founders

“Reaching this milestone naturally leads to reflection—not just on how far we’ve come, but on the realization that no matter how much technology or the world changes, the core principles of building a business remain the same. For us, it’s always been about doing more than just showing up. At the heart of our success are the relationships we’ve built. Whether collaborating with clients, growing with teammates, or connecting within our community, those relationships have been the foundation of everything we’ve achieved.

 

From the beginning, we’ve been driven by a desire to leave a mark—on our industry, our city, and our community. We took early bets on Northern Liberties and Fishtown, long before they became the vibrant neighborhoods they are today. And we’ve worked to foster innovation through events like Forge, Innovation Day, Agency Field Day, and now 1682.

 

Running a business isn’t always easy. But after 20 years, we’ve learned that building something that challenges the norm, stays true to your values, and creates real impact is what makes the journey worthwhile.”

– Keith Scandone, Co-Founder and CEO

“Looking back on 20 years of O3, I’m struck by how far we’ve come—from building simple websites in a small Philly office to designing AI-driven solutions that are helping companies rethink how they operate. Through all that change, one thing’s stayed constant: our belief in putting humans at the center of everything we do. I’m beyond grateful to the strategists, PMs, designers, engineers—and every behind-the-scenes hero—who’ve made this journey possible. And to our clients: thank you for letting us push boundaries, solve meaningful problems, and grow alongside you.”

–Mike Gadsby, O3 Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer

Rooted in Philadelphia, expanding everywhere

O3 was born in Philadelphia—a city known for its grit and creativity—and that spirit is still in our DNA. We’ve always believed that great work can come from anywhere, but being part of Philly’s tech and creative community has shaped who we are in important ways.

We’ve grown into a distributed team, with voices and perspectives from across North America. But wherever we are, we bring that same energy and commitment to each challenge we take on.

Looking ahead

Twenty years is a big milestone—but it’s not the finish line. We’re still learning, evolving, and reaching for what’s next. As we look ahead, we’re excited by the possibilities. And we’re more committed than ever to staying true to what brought us here: creativity, curiosity, and a belief in doing meaningful work.

To everyone who’s been part of the journey—thank you. Whether you were with us for a season or for the long haul, you’ve shaped who we are.

Here’s to the next chapter. Happy 20th, O3.