Brand identity is the collection of items that make your brand unique. Nike Swoosh is the perfect example of a brand identity. When you see a swoosh, or something vaguely similar to it, your brain picks the word for you, Nike. Even though used interchangeably, brand, and brand identity are two different things altogether. The brand is how the customers see your firm whereas brand identity is what catches their eyes. It can be your brand’s logo, website, typography, or maybe the colors you use, and it could be anything about your brand and its products. If you are stuck at finding your brand’s identity, read the rest of the article to get an idea of where to start.
Step 1. Start with your values and beliefs
If you are stuck at finding a brand identity for your brand, there are things you can work on to get a start. Figure it out by finding your brand’s values. Think about your brand’s mission, the values you hold on to, the personality, and the tone. Apple’s brand identity is the bitten apple. But, you don’t always have to be literal with your brand’s name.
- Find what makes your brand unique.
- Find out the spec that stands out in your products and services as well.
- Why is your brand’s philosophy?
- How do you want your customers to identify you?
Above mentioned are some points that can help you in establishing a brand identity. However, if you are not confident enough, get an expert in the scene. There are dedicated professionals that can help you in setting up your brand right away.
Step 2. Design as a brand
Once you break down your ideas and values to find a brand identity,
you can start with your brand design. A design model should cover all the services and products that your brand creates, be it your logo, products, typography, or even the colors you use. Brand design can be as simple as Apple’s or Nike’s, or it can be flamboyant as the band Queen’s. Even though a brand identity is not all about the design, great design can help you to stand out from the crowd.
Typography
Even though typography is the art of writing. But in digital terms, they are font design. And, the internet has the largest free library of great fonts. Go through Google fonts, see what suits your brand the most. Maybe be something simple & elegant, or maybe stylish ones as well. There is no right or correct font for a brand, you have to choose a font that suits your brand.
Logo
A logo is yet another factor that can impress your customers, visually. Remember that a Game of Thrones episode had a Starbucks cup in it. But how did the fans find that out? Logo! They can be that powerful at creating impressions and giving your brand identity. Given that, there is more to your brand’s identity than a logo as well.
Website
Your brand enters a market through a website. And that is why its design should be visually pleasing. But, do not compromise on user-experience to make your website stand out from the crowd. The customers should love your design, & yet find it much easier to explore it. Follow a grandeur color scheme for your website design. Use a color palette that suits well for your brand’s identity.
Step 3. Combining your brand’s personality with the design
A brand’s personality is how your brand will be as a person. While you are making a design, keep the personality on your mind. The design of your logo, website, products, packaging, and even business cards affect your brand identity. The right use of typography, colors, & shape of the design are elements that can make a deep impact on the overall design.
Step 4. Reaching the people
No matter how good your brand identity is, be it a logo, typography, website, colors you use, or the product itself, it is of no use until it reaches the mass. Use all your available options to spread your brand’s mission and vision. And, ensure that your brand’s vision is not just words. Make sure that what you write in words is reflected in your brand design and products as well.
Maintaining Consistency
The last thing you want with your brand is to have different types of style and identity on different platforms. You should ensure the design and philosophy of your brand’s identity remain the same, be it in on your website, product, or other social platforms. Maintaining consistency needs you to follow a crisp code while working in the line of brand identity. It is advised to develop a “guide” once you develop your brand’s design. So, this document will act as a reference for future updates and changes.
