After the settlement Jobs continued to court Esslinger until the designer decided to wind down his contract with Apple. That allowed frogdesign to work with NeXT at the end of 1986. Esslinger insisted on having free rein, just as Paul Rand had. "Sometimes you have to use a big stick with Steve," he said. Like Rand, Esslinger was an artist, so Jobs was willing to grant him indulgences he denied other mortals. Jobs
Following their settlement, Steve Jobs remained interested in maintaining a relationship with designer Hartmut Esslinger, who ultimately chose to end his contract with Apple. This decision enabled frogdesign to collaborate with NeXT by late 1986. Esslinger, similar to the renowned designer Paul Rand, required creative freedom to perform effectively. He noted that working with Jobs sometimes necessitated a firm approach.
Esslinger, like Rand before him, was recognized for his artistic capabilities, which granted him privileges that were not extended to others. Jobs appreciated this artistic integrity, leading him to support Esslinger more than he would with most colleagues. This dynamic showcases Jobs's willingness to accommodate creative talents in pursuit of innovative design.
