Some thoughts about how to take a stand.
Just like individuals, every organisation, company or brand has its own identity. A distinct identity differentiates an organisation from its competitors. It allows customers, suppliers and staff to recognise, understand and clearly describe the organisation concerned. The identity of any organisation is complex. It includes the effectiveness of its services or products, the shared values and ambitions of its employees, the corporate tone of voice and PR profile. Naturally, its visual appearance (or visual identity) plays the key role.
Visual identity manifests itself in many ways. In addition to its logo, typeface and colours, the following all contribute to the impression created by the identity: stationery, marketing literature, buildings, interior design, signage, product design, customer information, vehicles and every aspect of promotional activity from a high-profile advertising campaign to the design of a giveaway.
The detailed management of a visual identity is equally important as the management of other business assets such as finance or human resources. Without a well thought out visual identity guideline, an organisation’s brand perception will be at best diluted, and at worse appear chaotic and unprofessional.
When all of the visual elements of an organisation work together in unity, the investment in its identity is protected and the overall image becomes one of quality and strength.