When I refreshed my own brand identity for my creative and design services a couple of years ago I wanted something that had intrigue. Here's the rationale ;) If it hasn't got a relevant story it won't be distinguishable – be different for the right reasons regardless of the budget. Quality matters.

I recently supported Maurice Malone and the Birmingham Irish Association creating a digital #OOH Ad for their historic 50th St Patrick's Day Parade celebration event within the city of Birmingham.

You'll see this on the impressive Ocean Outdoor's D6 network (125 selected screens and locations in and around Birmingham's commuter arterials). I love this medium, used a few times now and it's a great way to advertise. Give me a thumbs up if you see it anywhere ;)

There's all this talk of brand...brand...brand and like most things it's knowing when and where to start. Here's a simple tip to get the ball rolling...

What are you great at?

You don't need a brand identity and brand strategy to do 1,001 things from the get-go, that all grows in time. In truth, imho – less is always more. Be individual, to communicate your organisations messaging, it's unique mission, vision & values etc. And be consistent and relevant.

Shown are the core principles set out by Rob Strasser for Nike in 1977. Impressive right! As we can now see what was planned and in the nearly 50 years thereafter worked towards as part of their story and #brand. I think we can safely say it helped.

When it’s not defined and aligned the message is hard to believe in and/or work with or towards. It's all about clarity and direction. Brand strategy can help with this, and so can I. 

#Marketers and #Brands – Which side do you really want to be on?