Corporate identity; It is the name given to the way a brand or company introduces itself. In addition, the mission, identity and value of the enterprises are directly reflected in the corporate identity prepared using all communication channels. In this way, it becomes easier to reach the target audience. Corporate identity designs consisting of many components should always be prepared by professional companies. In addition, these studies, which ensure the long-term recognisability of businesses, have an extremely important place in terms of reliability, competitive advantage, internal communication and sending messages to the target audience.
What is Corporate Identity and Which Elements Does It Cover?
The way a company introduces itself means corporate identity. It is also the name of the general system that expresses the vision, mission and values of the brand with written, audio and visual elements. The main purpose of identity in businesses is to ensure that the company is easily remembered and recognised by external and internal stakeholders. Corporate identity, which expresses the consistency, professionalism and reliability of a company, provides information to the outside world about company culture and goals.
If we look at the elements that make up corporate identity;
- Visual Identity: It includes factors such as corporate documents, colour palette, emblem and logo, typography, packaging design, digital design, vehicle wraps and clothing.
- Corporate Behaviour: It includes corporate values, mission and vision, social responsibility, communication language.
- Auditory Identity: It includes brand slogans, vocalisation style and melodies through which companies are introduced by auditory and vocal means.
The consistent application of these listed elements constitutes the corporate identity guide. In this guide, how to use the logo, font sizes and types, templates to be used for printed and digital materials and codes of colours are prepared.
What is Corporate Identity Guide and How is it prepared?
A special document prepared to create the corporate identity of a brand or company is called a corporate identity guide. This guide, in which communicative, written and visual standards are detailed and the brand identity is reflected smoothly, always provides consistency. It continues to save time while adding a professional look to brands. It also prevents damage to brand value while protecting corporate identity. During the preparation phase, there is a research and analysis process. In other words, the target audience, competitors and the sector are analysed. Then, the design process and then the writing of the guide are listed.
When writing the manual, all written and visual elements are handled in detail. Technical information is also included. In the next stage, approval and publication, the guideline must be approved by the managers. The corporate identity guide, which is shared with employees and external partners, is reviewed and updated at the last stage and made ready.
Importance of Corporate Identity Design for Businesses
Corporate identity design, which affects the perception of businesses in the market, also provides long-term success with customers. The importance of corporate identity design for businesses in items is as follows;
- Recognition of brands increases. Because thanks to visual consistency, there are situations such as catchiness and differentiation from competitors.
- It enables the brand to create a perception of trust and professionalism. Identity design, which brings a strong impression, also develops brand loyalty in customers.
- Corporate identity design enables employees to see themselves as an important part of the brand and improves corporate culture.
- It supports communication and marketing activities. In this way, while providing easy communication, it enables more effective campaigns to be created. In addition, the same message is guaranteed in face-to-face, printed and digital communication.
- It brings competitive advantage. A strong corporate identity increases the value of the brand and appeals directly to the target audience. It also helps you stand out among competitors.
- Supports business success in the long term. A consistent brand identity provides stability in the long term. In addition, the value of the brand is maintained as the business grows.
- Corporate brand identity is always important to adapt to change and growth in future periods.
- Corporate identity, which creates a strong perception, easily conveys the vision and mission values of the brand. In this way, it can attract the attention of the target audience.
Corporate identity design increases the market value of the brand. This means an increase in financial value.
The Connection Between Corporate Identity and Brand Image. Corporate identity and brand image, which determine how a brand is perceived and seen by the outside world, are directly related to each other. Corporate identity is the way brands express themselves to the outside world through behavioural, written and visual factors. Brand image is the thoughts and feelings perceived by the target audience and formed about the brand.
Corporate identity directly shapes brand image. Because a quality corporate identity work shows that the brand is stable and reliable. In addition, an identity prepared with consistency in written and visual communication channels gives confidence to the target audience. Again, corporate identity, which affects the emotional dimension of the brand, causes insecurity and perception errors when mismanaged. Because if the faulty elements do not affect the target audience of the brand, they directly affect the image. Likewise, if the corporate identity is not constantly updated, the brand image may be perceived as outdated.
What Should Be Considered When Creating Corporate Identity?
Things to consider when creating a corporate identity;
- Mission, vision and values should be clearly defined within the scope of brand strategy.
- By analysing the target audience, it should be determined which audience the brand will appeal to.
- The place of the brand in the market should be positioned.
- Attention should be paid to visual elements. A catchy and unique logo should be prepared. It should also be known that effective and simple designs are more memorable.
- Attention should be paid to language and communication style. It is important that the brand is sincere or formal. In addition, a short and striking slogan should be prepared.
- Digital and printed materials should be used effectively.
- A corporate identity guide should be created together with brand guidelines.
Which Sections Should Corporate Identity Guide Include?
Corporate identity guide is an important document that regulates the written and visual factors of a brand. The sections that should be included in this document are the introduction and general introduction;
- Logo usage guide
- Colour palette
- Typography, i.e. typefaces
- Graphic and visual elements
- Communication materials
- Corporate language and communication guide
- Packaging design
- Office and environmental applications
- Right of use and prohibitions
- FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) are listed as.
How Should A Successful Corporate Identity Example Be?
A successful corporate identity should first of all directly reflect the vision, the value of the brand and its relationship with its customers. Along with this feature, which makes it memorable and consistent in all communication channels, the following elements must be complete;
- It should be in harmony with the brand strategy.
- A memorable and unique logo should be used.
- A consistent colour palette.
- Correct typography should be used.
- A strong tagline must be prepared.
- Visual language and graphic elements should attract attention.
- Corporate communication style should be appropriate.
- Social media and digital identity should be strong.
Corporate Identity and Logo Design Relationship
Corporate identity and logo design, which make brands memorable, should be compatible with each other. While communication and visual language strategy should be handled as a whole, the logo can be defined as the face of corporate identity. In addition, corporate identity provides the elaboration of the brand story behind the logo. In this way, it supports direct connection with customers. In order to create a quality and successful brand, it is essential that the corporate identity and logo are integrated in a consistent and appropriate way for the target audience.
Why is Corporate Identity Necessary for Small Businesses?
Corporate identity, which creates a reliable and professional image, also helps to stand out from the competition. Because thousands of small businesses are in constant competition in the digital world. On the other hand, corporate identity that increases customer loyalty guarantees more effective marketing. At this stage, it supports the growth of the business while increasing customer loyalty and trust. Corporate identity that motivates employees and business partners creates a great impact with low budgets.
Where to Buy Professional Corporate Identity Design?
A professional corporate identity design that ensures the correct representation of the brand also directly affects the target audience. You can get this service from freelance designers, advertising agencies or graphic design studios. However, it is useful to check the company's history and successful identity designs before getting service. First of all, you can review the portfolio, pay attention to budget and pricing and communicate with agencies. You should pay attention to the delivery date of the project, which is another stage, and find out how many revisions are allowed during the design. You can meet with designers or institutions to determine your needs and make choices according to your budget. Corporate identity design, which directly affects the success of businesses in the market, should be taken from companies that have references in this field and always provide a happy customer experience.
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