You’re too busy to worry about creating a brand style guide. There’s too much to do and not enough hours in a day. Besides, you don’t see why your company should invest in even creating such a document. For the nonbelievers and naysayers, we’ve got 5 reasons why investing in a style guide is a must for every company.
Save Time
You’re well aware that time is money. Trust us, your creative team is anxious to get the job done quickly and correctly. By establishing a clear-cut set of brand guidelines, you eliminate the philosophical office banter about which Pantone shade of blue matches your team’s mood each time they have to work on another marketing project and hope they’re getting it right. A brand style guide will allow your team to efficiently and effectively create stellar marketing materials. A reference guide will quickly provide details such as logo size and placement, colors, fonts, iconography, etc.
Save Money
A brand style guidelines decreases the chances of an unfortunate marketing disaster. Think of the cost associated with paying employees to essentially recreate the wheel every time your company sends out a new piece of marketing collateral. Sending a project to the printer can be expensive. A brand style guide decreases the changes you’ll have to send your project there twice.
Deliver Clear Messaging
Inconsistent branding and messaging confuses your customers. Your company’s identity crisis will confuse customers. And, puzzled consumers will migrate to familiar brands with consistent, transparent messaging. Repetition is the best way to create a memorable brand. Regardless of where customers encounter your brand, a consistent look and message will increase awareness and stand out in the crowd. Remember: A style guide is a living document. At some point, it’s fair to throw out the details that no longer serve your company and its customers. Once customers know and trust your brand, they’ll move with you.
Command Respect
Customers trust clear, reliable brand messages. A lack of a professional public face will result in poor business development and a negative reputation. Command respect by giving respect: give your customers the consistency and clarity they need to become lifelong followers of your brand.
Protect Your Brand
Once you’ve created a recognizable, enviable brand, others will want in on your company’s success. A brand style guide helps protect your brand’s legal rights. Defined, published brand parameters help your brand stand up against copycats and thieves.
So, now what?
We hope you’ll take time to reflect upon the potential consequences of not investing in a brand style guide. Better yet, think about how your team will thank you for coming to us for your style guide needs.