Why is Corporate Identity Necessary?
A yellow letter “M” on a red background, a bitten apple, a white letter “f” on a blue background. We haven’t named a single company yet, but you already know exactly which companies we are talking about.
What makes McDonald’s, Apple, or Facebook recognizable? Logo, products, reputation – all of these are carefully crafted elements of corporate identity. Do you want your company to be recognized by a single element? Do you want your brand to stand out from competitors and attract attention? It is worth thinking about creating a corporate identity. Read on to discover what corporate style and a brand book are all about.
What is a Brand or Corporate Identity?
Corporate identity is the visual image of a company, consisting of a specific set of graphic elements. Brand style is created according to the specific nature of your business operations. Below is an example of a corporate identity.
Why Do You Need a Brand Identity?
In this way, corporate identity serves as a visual marketing tool for company growth and market promotion.
In addition, corporate identity works not only for external image but also positively impacts your team. By introducing a few company-branded items into daily office life (mugs, pens, notebooks, etc.), you will notice an improved emotional mood and a more united team. Corporate identity unites!
Elements of Corporate Identity
If you think that brand identity is a privilege exclusive to large corporations, you are mistaken. A sleek and memorable logo, a clean business card, a letterhead, and an envelope constitute the minimum package that will build a positive image for your business. Furthermore, consumers and business partners perceive a corporate style as a mark of quality – that is simply how human psychology works.
What is included in a corporate identity? The main elements:
Logo – the primary component of a company’s visual perception. Brand identity starts with the logo.
Important: A logo must be simple, memorable, and versatile (or exist in different variations to look great on all branded items).
Below are various logo variations developed for the “Irish Bar”:
When choosing corporate colors, usually no more than two or three shades are used; however, some projects intentionally opt for a more colorful palette. Selecting the color scheme for the logo, company items, and attributes requires a responsible approach. Color design creates an image that shapes how consumers perceive your products – different shades and combinations evoke specific feelings and emotions.
Let’s look at “Shelby” – the brand identity of a karaoke bar. The background features rich chocolate tones that create a sense of coziness and comfort. The corporate colors were selected in line with an overall retro aesthetic, evoking associations with the 1960s and 70s.
Typically, the number of corporate fonts does not exceed three: for the logo, website, and promotional materials. They are equally vital for brand recognition and customer loyalty, as they directly influence how the company is perceived. For example, handwritten fonts symbolize openness and friendliness.
It is important to remember that the font must be easily legible and complement the logo style.
The list of corporate attributes is formed according to the specifics and field of your business. Usually, they include:
Corporate attributes can also include custom packaging design, staff uniforms, interior decoration, vehicle livery, and much more.
The image style must be cohesive. Ideally, a consumer should associate a single image or visual style directly with your company. For instance, you can focus on custom illustrations created in a uniform technique or photography with a consistent filter.
Developing a corporate identity is an outstanding investment in your company’s future! It allows you to build a solid image while increasing touchpoints with consumers and potential partners.
Imagine this: they will see your branded products and promotional materials on the street, remember your website’s stylish design, and gladly show a sleek business card to their friends. Don’t forget that people naturally prefer services from familiar brands. If you have a memorable corporate identity, consumers will recognize your company after just their second interaction with your product or ad, perceiving it as familiar – at least visually.
Be recognizable! Because recognition leads to success!
Want to stand out from your competitors? Order your corporate identity development with us!