Today we’d like to introduce you to Hardy Sidhu & Ricardo Medina
Hi Hardy Sidhu & Ricardo Medina, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Hardy, one of the original catalysts for digital product design within the agency world, spent six years building high-performing product teams across top agencies in Europe and North America. Despite success in transforming digital product strategies—improving results, speed, and collaboration—he recognized that to truly serve clients, the traditional agency model needed rethinking. Rather than acting as vendors, agencies needed to operate as embedded partners, invested in each client’s success.
Format-3 was founded in early 2023 in London to fulfil this vision. During a challenging economic climate, Format-3 took a unique approach: offering dedicated, embedded expertise with a focus on client needs rather than expensive, short-term solutions. Our first year was dedicated to recruiting top global talent, refining our processes, and building Format-3’s reputation as a true partner in digital innovation. Working with clients across media, sports, and healthcare allowed us to validate our approach and gain industry recognition.
Now in our second year, Format-3 has grown to a team of 20, embedding our expertise within both large and small organisations across Europe, the Middle East, and the United States through our hub in Nashville. We measure our success by the results we achieve for our clients, focusing on elevating their digital products and services.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Building a new model in a traditional industry comes with its own challenges. Our commitment to a human-centered approach means dedicating time to in-person collaborative workshops, often in our clients’ locations. Logistics can be complex, especially with a fully remote team, but we’ve created “satellite F3 hubs” in various cities to meet this need.
Marketing ourselves has been another challenge. With our energy dedicated to client work, external promotion took a back seat. This year, however, we’ve committed to sharing Format-3’s story more widely—such as here in Nashville Voyager.
Lastly, moving from large agencies—where RFPs (Requests for Proposals) from major brands were a steady source of work—to being a newcomer required us to rethink our approach to new business. Rather than relying on formal RFPs, we focused on building meaningful relationships, which led to ongoing partnerships that fit our model.
We’ve been impressed with Format-3, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Format-3 is a new kind of agency focused on delivering user-centered digital products through human-centered collaboration. We specialize in digital strategy, product design, and scalable development that are ROI-driven and designed to help brands thrive in the digital landscape.
What sets us apart is our highly specialized global team and a deep commitment to partnership. We blend the expertise, speed, and innovation of a large agency with the flexibility and personal touch of a boutique firm. This approach means we’re not just delivering solutions—we’re building relationships that go beyond typical client interactions.
At Format-3, we focus on building Meaningful Partner Profiles (MPPs) instead of just Ideal Client Profiles (ICPs). We’re proud of our successful outcomes, but we equally value the relationships and memories created through these partnerships.
If you’re looking to lead in digital products or services and need a strategic partner for design, development, and innovation, reach out to us—we’ll bring the sticky notes and sharpies!
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Hardy:
Philosophy and history are constant sources of insight, helping me anticipate changes that drive society forward. For design inspiration, I observe everyday objects and human interaction—they provide valuable cues on usability and empathy, which are essential in digital design. Embracing the concept of play as an adult has also introduced fresh, creative approaches to problem-solving.
Ricardo:
Storytelling and intentional leadership are central to my approach. Storyworthy by Matthew Dicks has shaped my perspective on noticing small, meaningful moments, which is invaluable in understanding both our partners and team dynamics on a deeper level. I also draw inspiration from Ali Abdaal’s Deep Dive podcast, where his balance of mindfulness, clarity, and drive resonates with how I lead.
Pricing:
- At Format-3, our success is measured by the impact we create and the partnerships we cultivate, not by revenue per project. We are always excited to collaborate with visionaries and are flexible to accommodate various budgets and scenarios—especially when there’s a big dream on the table.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://format-3.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/format3studio/
- Other: https://clutch.co/profile/format-3
