Fast Company has published insights from Goran Paun, Principal & Creative Director of ArtVersion, on August 12th 2025 in the article “20 Ways to Get the Most Out of Annual Business Conferences.”
The piece, published by the Fast Company Executive Board, compiles advice from influential leaders across industries on how to turn annual conferences into catalysts for innovation, connection, and measurable growth.
Contribution
Paun emphasized the importance of setting a unique goal for each year, framing conferences not as routine commitments but as platforms for discovery:
“Don’t just attend but participate. Each year, I set a unique goal: explore an emerging trend, meet peers in a different discipline, or bring a junior team member for a fresh perspective. Conferences can become routine unless you break your own patterns. Approach them with curiosity, not obligation, and the value multiplies.” – Goran Paun, ArtVersion
This mindset reflects ArtVersion’s broader approach to creativity and design: each project is an opportunity to break old patterns, uncover new perspectives, and drive transformation through human-centered strategies.
How It Connects to ArtVersion’s Work
At ArtVersion, the philosophy Paun shared applies beyond the conference setting—it’s embedded in how the agency collaborates with brands:
- Breaking Routine in UX & BrandingJust as Paun advocates shifting focus each year at conferences, ArtVersion encourages clients to challenge design routines, uncover blind spots, and explore fresh perspectives in their brand ecosystems.
- Exploring Emerging TrendsFrom Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) to AI-driven discovery, ArtVersion helps brands adopt new strategies that align with evolving user behavior and digital platforms.
- Cross-Disciplinary CollaborationPaun’s point about engaging with peers across disciplines mirrors ArtVersion’s collective model, where designers, strategists, and developers integrate diverse skills to build holistic user experiences.
- Mentorship and GrowthBy bringing junior team members to conferences, Paun underlines the importance of mentorship—something ArtVersion values deeply as it nurtures new talent while delivering Fortune 500-level outcomes.
Why This Matters
Conferences, like design projects, deliver their greatest value when approached with intention and curiosity. Paun’s perspective reinforces ArtVersion’s belief that every engagement—whether it’s a rebrand, a website redesign, or a strategic workshop—should be treated as a launchpad for growth and insight, not just another task on the calendar.
About Fast Company Executive Board
The Fast Company Executive Board is a private, invitation-only network of influential leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who contribute their insights to Fast Company’s audience.
About ArtVersion
ArtVersion is a Chicago-based creative agency specializing in branding, web design, and UX/UI strategy. For over 25 years, the agency has partnered with startups, nonprofits, and Fortune 500 companies to craft human-centered experiences that elevate brands and drive measurable business results.