The best agencies are almost cults, which is super fun if you’re into it with everybody else. Maybe some people like having a ladder to climb, which is not a trivial benefit. You can measure yourself against others day to day. As an indie you’re left just looking into the mirror and wincing. And agencies provide real support. When I’m sick, I’m still at my desk or everything grinds to a halt. Nobody covers for me. Also, ad agencies will invest a ton of money into their star performers. And you really can do a lot of great stuff at agencies if you work well within the structure. Stefan G. Bucher.