breaking down brand identity
What is brand identity? Most people equate a brand’s identity with its logo. While a logo is a part of brand identity, it is not the whole thing.
values + visuals = brand identity
Brand identity also incorporates such things as tone of voice, target client, company values, and more. Put simply, brand identity design is a company’s values plus it’s visuals.
values
There is a reason why “values” comes first in the formula. Before designing any visuals for a company, I always try to understand their foundation and goals so the design conveys that information accurately. When working with clients, I use a questionnaire or talk with them one on one to make sure I understand where they’re coming from. Some things I like to ask are:
What do you want people to feel when they think of your company?
Who is your ideal client? (Describe them in detail- age, location, family, hobbies, etc.)
Who is your competition and what makes you different?
Describe your business as if it was a person (adventurer, mompreneur, grandmother, etc.)
The answers to these questions gives us your “why” and helps us establish a direction for your visuals and copywriting, which is the next step in the brand identity process.
visuals
As a designer, I use your values to inform my design choices. Every aspect of a design has an intention behind it; there’s a reason behind the color palette, a reason behind the shapes and patterns, a reason for the amount of negative space. Those reasons are based off your values and target audience.
This idea extends into copywriting as your tone of voice should match your values and design. Just how you change your voice when you talk to a baby, your brand should adopt a tone that will attract your ideal client.
brand identity
Once you have finalized your values and visuals, the last part is to embrace your brand identity. If done right, your brand identity will be a reflection of you and your business goals. Your brand identity is uniquely yours and you should be proud of it.
To help keep your identity consistent over time, I provide each of my clients with a style guide. This is a document that outlines all the design elements and how to use them in different scenarios. You can share your style guide with employees and other associates to make sure your brand is being represented appropriately across the board.
it’s okay to pivot
I want to point out that it is okay for your brand to evolve over time. You should revisit your identity every so often to ensure that your visuals still align with your values. Your brand identity should pivot as you and your business pivot.
I hope that this information has been helpful and that you have a deeper understanding of brand identity design and how a graphic designer can help you achieve a meaningful solution. If you want help developing your brand identity, contact me today!
sharing is caring
P.S. Questions or comments? Please leave them below. Your feedback not only helps us tailor our content to your preferences, but also inspires others to share!
