Hello and welcome to another post on the topic of 'brand design'.

In this post we are going to dive in and get to the bottom of two terms that are often used interchangeably: 'Branding' and 'Brand Design'.

Are they the same thing? Are they different? Does it matter? Why should I care?

These questions may be firing in your mind. Let's answer the last one first.

Before we get started, I would like to offer you the opportunity to take advantage of our Free Consultation Service to help you grow your business online.

If you are not getting the results you deserve, why not talk to our team of world class brand and marketing experts? We can help you find new ways to succeed online without breaking the bank. Let's get going!

Why should I care?

The answer to this is simple.

The how and why of branding and brand design is the foundation of all marketing success. All things start with a why.

Why?

Why is branding and brand design important?

We all want growth. To build your business, you need to build your brand in a diversity of ways. 

You need to understand what your brand is, what it represents, who it is for and why it matters.
So yes, it does matter.

Branding & Brand Design Overview

Let's get specific about what these terms refer to.

Now let's tackle the first two questions. 

'Branding' vs 'brand design': are they the same thing? Are they different?

A simple answer is a good starting point.

Consider branding to be your landscape, and brand design your map.
Saul Edmonds

What is Branding?

Branding is a set of marketing initiatives - across a range of touch-points (such as print and digital communications) - to grow your sales and build your reputation in the marketplace.

Branding is the shorthand form of the longer term 'brand development'.

When you see 'branding' think 'brand development'.

'Brand development' always has its eyes on the big picture.

It's the view from above. The landscape.

Consider brand development as an holistic  and creative process, building, nurturing and growing your business long term.

This extends to your business culture, your product and service offerings, your values, perspectives and priorities - in short, the big story you communicate to the world.

The key goal here is to stand apart in the marketplace, be true to your vision and connect better with the people who matter most: your customers.

What is Brand Design?

Brand design tells your story in visual terms.

Brand design refers to the visual elements of your logo and brand styling.

Brand Design - A Working Definition

Brand design determines the visual identity of your brand.

A key element of your brand design is, of course, your logo. Brand design begins with your logo and encompasses your brand styling across all media, from company colours to image selections, fonts, tone and more.

A 'brand style guide' is a comprehensive document that puts all this together for you.

This is your map - on how to make your brand design work for you.

Why is your brand logo so important?
Your logo is important because it will appear across all stakeholder and customer touch-points.

Your brand logo is the design centrepiece of key marketing elements such as your website, business cards, stationary, packaging, signage, brochures and more.

Your logo is the main graphical element of your brand design.

A memorable logo :

• ensures that your clients can easily identify and recall your business 

• builds clarity of message 

• fosters an emotional connection with your audience 

• promotes consistency longterm across the gamut of communication channels 

• helps your brand name to be known and remembered for years to come 

First impressions matter
Quality brand and logo design drives success.

Stand out from your competitors and cut through the noise. Get your message heard and build trust with brilliant brand design.

Beyond a professional representation of your business, your logo represents you.

Branding and Brand Design: Conclusion

Build your brand to grow your business

In concluding, let's return to our introductory quote: 

In photography there is a reality so subtle that it becomes more real than reality.
(Alfred Stieglitz)

As the well know American photographer Alfred Stieglitz observes, photography captures a subtle reality that is hyperreal, or more real that 'real'.

In the same way, branding and brand design are subtle points that feed into the whole - of what drives you and fuels your business.

It is worth investing time in getting your branding and brand design right for you.

Remember, your brand should tell your story.

Let your brand design reflect the real, special and unique qualities that make you YOU.

Saul Edmonds.
Founder and Creative Director of Roundhouse

ARE YOU Looking to Grow Your Brand?

Get to know Saul Edmonds & Roundhouse

As Creative Director & Roundhouse Founder Saul Edmonds has over 20 years professional brand, design and digital experience. 

He is an international expert on Brand, Website and App Development. He has worked with clients across all industry groups - including startups, small business, government and entrepreneurs - on projects of all sizes and budgets.

Saul and his team can help you grow your business.

Book an obligation free consultation with a qualified brand marketer.


phone : 1300 727 749
email : us@roundhouse.cc

Get started now. Contact us here.

Learn about our brand design solutions here.
Learn about our graphic design solutions here.

See our brand and logo portfolio here.

If you enjoyed reading this article, you may also enjoy the following:

Roundhouse - The Creative Agency

Connect with Saul Edmonds on Linkedin here.

Author - Saul Edmonds

Success in business has a lot in common with success on the battle field.

From the quote above, we can see that Napoleon - the brilliant French Military Leader - clearly valued preparation. He knew that preparation sets the ground for success.

Perhaps we can learn a little from Napoleon!

Here at Roundhouse, we value preparation for business success.

Marketing - and the elements (or collateral) that necessarily accompanies it - is akin to preparation for battle. It sets the ground for success in the marketplace.

Your 'marketing collateral' constitutes your weapons for the field!

Before we get started, I would like to offer you the opportunity to take advantage of our Free Consultation Service to help you grow your business online.

If you are not getting the results you deserve, why not talk to our team of world class brand and marketing experts? We can help you find new ways to succeed online without breaking the bank. Let's get going!

But, before we go any further with the metaphors, let's define exactly what 'marketing collateral' is.

Marketing Collateral Definition: 5 Key Points

Develop your marketing collateral for strategic success:

1. Marketing Collateral consists of both printed and digital assets, created purposefully to deliver an effective marketing solution.

2. Your marketing collateral works together holistically to promote your logo, brand and business in a range of ways.

3. Your marketing collateral communicates your products, services and value proposition to your audience across a range of touch points.

4. Your marketing collateral is tailored to fit your business and your goals.
It can include printed items such as business cards, point of sale promotional items, brochures, magazines and posters - right through to digital content for distribution online. Examples of digital content are web content, data and analytics, video, animation and infographics.

5. Marketing Collateral is the term used to refer to the collection of media and creative products used to support sales and business.

Tailored Marketing Collateral
Fine-tune the elements of your marketing collateral to achieve victory.

Your marketing collateral consists of a range of assets - both printed and digital - that is tailored to goals of your campaign.

Connect with Your Audience
Think of your marketing as a flexible strategy designed to meet the demands of your audience -
both online and offline.

Here is a more definitive list of print assets to consider when defining the range of your marketing collateral.

BUSINESS & STATIONERY FOR MARKETING COLLATERAL

• Business Cards

• Brochures

• Letterheads

• Envelopes

• Annual reports

• Newsletters

• Technical Manuals

• Corporate Stationery

• Presentation Folders

• Invoices & Receipts

• Order Forms

• Menus

• Invitations

PROMOTIONAL DESIGN FOR MARKETING COLLATERAL

• Flyers

• Point of Sale Material

• Packaging Design

• Postcards

• Stickers

• Calendars

• Magnets

• Loyalty Cards

• Greeting Cards

• Tickets

• T Shirts

• Brochures

• Newsletters

• Magazines

• Catalogues

Find below an overview of digital assets that can extend the range of your marketing initiatives.

DIGITAL & MEDIA SERVICES FOR MARKETING COLLATERAL

• Digital Media Design

• Email Marketing

• Web Design

• App Design

• Integrated Digital Campaigns

• Art Direction

• Creative Concepts

• Social Campaign Design

• Video Content

INFOGRAPHICS & DATA PRESENTATION FOR MARKETING COLLATERAL

• Information Graphics

• Data & Diagrams

• Maps

• Interactives

• Videos

• Presentations

• Content Strategy

• Content Marketing

• Powerpoint Presentations

• Bringing it all together

Marketing Collaterals are Tools for Success
Build your brand across a range of touch points

Your marketing collaterals are your promotional assets to build sales and support customer service.

Start small - business cards, brochures, website, an email signature - but think big. 

Continue to add more elements as you invest in your growth over time.

Be like Napoleon and get prepared for success!

Saul Edmonds.
Founder and Creative Director of Roundhouse

ARE YOU Looking to Grow Your Brand?

Get to know Saul Edmonds & Roundhouse

As Creative Director & Roundhouse Founder Saul Edmonds has over 20 years professional brand, design and digital experience. 

He is an international expert on Brand, Website and App Development. He has worked with clients across all industry groups - including startups, small business, government and entrepreneurs - on projects of all sizes and budgets.

Saul and his team can help you grow your business.

Book an obligation free consultation with a qualified brand marketer.


phone : 1300 727 749
email : us@roundhouse.cc

Get started now. Contact us here.

Learn about our brand design solutions here.
Learn about our graphic design solutions here.

See our brand and logo portfolio here.

If you enjoyed reading this article, you may also enjoy the following:

Roundhouse - The Creative Agency

Connect with Saul Edmonds on Linkedin here.

Author - Saul Edmonds

Welcome to another blog post and thank you for stopping by!

Today, we are going to focus on 7 key strategies by which to market your brand online, all of which are affordable and deliver measurable results longterm.

We will start by defining what is your brand, what is online marketing and how to bring them together in a purposeful way to inspire your audience and build your business opportunities.

Before we get started, I would like to offer you the opportunity to take advantage of our Free Consultation Service to help you grow your business online.

If you are not getting the results you deserve, why not talk to our team of world class brand and marketing experts? We can help you find new ways to succeed online without breaking the bank. Let's get going!

7 Ways to Market Your Brand Online

Before we dive into our 7 strategies to market your brand, let's review some key terms.

What is your brand?
Your brand is the summary of your business. It is what your business represents to the world.

Yes - your brand includes your logo.
But it is more than that.

It is what you stand for, how you present your business, your value proposition, your service and product offerings.

It is the complete package.

Most importantly, your brand is you.

That is why we focus on 'telling your story' as a key element of any brand strategy, as you are unique, your story is unique and your business is like no other. (That also helps to find your point of difference)

Also - customers like working with people they know. Branding helps your prospective customers get to know you. This in turn builds trust. People value trust.

So - brand marketing is - in a nutshell - building your reputation.

What is online marketing?
Online marketing simply refers to the use of digital channels to grow your business and professional opportunities.

Examples of these digital channels include:

• website marketing

• social media marketing

• video marketing

• email marketing

• and paid marketing options such as Google Ads

Let's bring branding and online marketing together now - and discover some simple and easy to implement ways to market your brand online.

7 Affordable Ways to Market Your Brand Online

1. Website Design & Marketing
Get a website that is optimised for conversion.

The foundation of online marketing is your business website. Ensure that your website represents you and your brand.
 
Aim for a high conversion website design by focusing on the following elements:

• a clear brand message

• engaging content 

• clear layout

• calls to action

• fast page load times

• plenty of information

Remember the quote at the start of this article?
"These days, people want to learn before they buy, be educated instead of pitched."
(Brian Clark)

Your clients value information and education. Provide it to them. This will build trust - both in you and your brand.

2. Promote your Brand via Social Media.
Build your brand with social media.

A common marketing catch-phrase today is 'omnichannel' marketing. This refers to sending your message across several channels at the one time.

Make sure you have a business presence on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram. We recommend to invest 15 minutes each day across these platforms to get build your brand over the longterm. 

Share images, insights, comments and information about who you are, and how you can help people. Focus on how to bring benefits to the lives of others. Give is gain. 

3. Online Networking
Build relationships to expand brand.

What is online networking?
Online networking is about getting to know people and build genuine business relationships via online platforms. Focus on the platforms where your potential customers will be; again
Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram are good places to start.

Get involved. Be seen. Help out. Build relationships and discover contacts.

Have conversations.

Be real - don't sell.

This helps to build your brand by letting people get to know you in an honest way. Remember, good friendships will last a lifetime. Brand loyalty is no different.

4. Tell Your Story
Build a narrative that inspires your audience.

Brand marketing is best when approached through the lens of a story. Sometimes this is referred to as 'story marketing'.

What is story marketing and why is it important to brands?

A great story engages everyone. A powerful brand story will be remembered by your clients and prospects. Stories inspire and make life meaningful. They build on our human need for emotional understanding and shared visions.

By approaching brand marketing through the telling of a story, you open the opportunity to connect with others in a deep and personal way. This is a great way to cut through the noise and get your message heard. 

Tell your story - via your website, blog posts, about page and social media interactions - simply and from the heart. Use emotion to communicate your message. Use your experience to help others.

5. Ensure Brand Consistency
Present a consistent brand to promote a consistent message.

People notice consistency. Ensure that your logo, brand, email signature, website, social media profiles and more - are all in alignment.

Use the same colours, the same logo and the same presentation style to build a clear message.

A brand style guide is a professional document provided by your graphic/ brand design team, that will stipulate precise ways to use your brand and messaging across all media. It is well worth the investment - and will help your brand move to the next level.

6. Build Your Brand via Email Campaigns
Email outreach is a cost effective way to build your brand.

Email marketing is a great way to keep your brand 'top of mind'. Remember your best customer is a returning customer, who has already converted. 

Take advantage of email marketing with a professionally designed email marketing template. Share your successes and experience with your client base. Inspire them to get in touch with you.

Why not use your website and social media pages to offer people the opportunity to 'opt in' for online specials and offers delivered via a regular email newsletter?

7. Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Ask Satisfied Customers to Talk about You

People read reviews, so take every opportunity to encourage feedback.

Capitalise on positive feedback by sharing customer testimonials online. A photo or video testimonial takes a review to the next level.

Again, this helps people to understand your brand and get to know you better.

Final Thoughts
These are all simple, yet powerful way to grow your brand online. Don't feel you have to do everything at once, everyday. 

Building your brand online is like growing a garden. Tend it regularly, lovingly and consistently and it will flourish over the years. Be patient and keep going.

You will get there!

Saul Edmonds.
Founder and Creative Director of Roundhouse

ARE YOU Looking to Grow Your Brand?

Get to know Saul Edmonds & Roundhouse

As Creative Director & Roundhouse Founder Saul Edmonds has over 20 years professional brand, design and digital experience. 

He is an international expert on Brand, Website and App Development. He has worked with clients across all industry groups - including startups, small business, government and entrepreneurs - on projects of all sizes and budgets.

Saul and his team can help you grow your business.

Book an obligation free consultation with a qualified brand marketer.


phone : 1300 727 749
email : us@roundhouse.cc

Get started now. Contact us here.

Learn about our brand design solutions here.
Learn about our graphic design solutions here.

See our brand and logo portfolio here.

If you enjoyed reading this article, you may also enjoy the following:

Roundhouse - The Creative Agency

Connect with Saul Edmonds on Linkedin here.

Author - Saul Edmonds

Welcome to 2023!

Yes, we know it is past new year - but for those in business, the year only seems to get started in February! Everyone is back after a holiday break and now returning to 'business proper'.

Are you looking to grow your business in 2023?

Are you seeking to grow your revenue in 2023?

If the answer is yes - a proven road that leads to growth is to focus on your brand.

Today we are starting a new series of blog posts on ways to enhance your brand, logo, website and digital communications. All of these elements will foster the longterm growth of your business - and help you better connect with the people who matter most: your customers!

Let's get started with 'brand awareness'.

First we need to define some terms.

What is Brand Awareness?
Brand Awareness refers to the level of your customer's loyalty and recognition of your company. 

• Do your customers know your brand and what you stand for?

• Are your customers actively engaged with your brand, products and services?

Answering these questions helps you to understand where your brand is within the marketplace.

What is Digital Marketing?
Digital marketing is outreach via digital media.
This includes:

•  website design and marketing

• apps

• video

• infographics

• social media

• video 

• podcasting

• online paid marketing options

Why use digital marketing to build brand awareness?
In today's digital world, most people spend significant amounts of time each day using digital devices - phones, tablets, laptops, desktops. It makes sense to be where your customers are.

Within the digital landscape are many ways to create and market your brand that are both low cost and easy to do.

Think of digital marketing like a garden. Invest time daily to grow rewards long term.

But you need a plan.

We call this a 'Digital Marketing Strategy'. It can be a simple plan - but it does require ongoing actions to stay in contact with your audience and engage their focus.

The best approach to this is to 'tell your story'. People want to know about you, your vision and your brand.

Build engagement with honesty, but build it consistently.

Simple Ways to use Digital Marketing to Enhance Brand Awareness

10 Ways to Grow Your Brand with Digital Marketing

Here are 10 affordable ways to make the most of digital marketing to grow brand awareness without breaking the bank.

1. Refresh your Company Website
Is it time to consider an update to your business website?

Technology improves over time. Your website is the first 'port of call' for potential new customers. Make the best first impression with a website that connects with your prospects and fosters engagement and conversion. Ensure that your website represents your brand effectively, loads quickly and works well across all devices.

2. Refresh your Company Logo
Does your logo reflect your business for today's market?

We all know that seasons change. Colours and styles modify over time and fashions come and go.
Many brands and logos are tweaked, adjusted or re-imaged over the years to ensure that they continue represent the business in the best possible light. 

3. Ensure Brand Consistency
Is your brand and logo consistent across all of your communication?

To make a consistent and professional impact, ensure that all of your media utilises your brand and logo in the same way. This extends further to detailed brand guidelines which will define set ways to use colour, style and messaging across all of your communication channels. Consider investing in professional brand guidelines - all leading brands do. Consistency is very important, especially when it comes to digital.

4. Expand Your Content
Add more pages and information to your website.

A great way to increase engagement is by providing more detail. Explain to customers how things work, and why. Tell the behind the scenes story. Give more technical data. Collect positive customer testimonials. A blog is great for this content - but you could also consider adding additional pages to your website.

5. Monitor your Website Performance
Use tools to get to know your traffic, your audiences and popular keywords.

A variety of free and paid tools are available to help monitor your website performance. This will easily let you know your website traffic, website speeds and load times, which pages are working well as well as ideas to shift the dial and move forward in search results, both locally and globally. A popular tool is SEMrush.

6. Infographics
Infographics are great for digital marketing and brand building.

Popular with customers, they help to communicate your brand and business concepts visually. Think of them as an informational and education tool. Professional infographics are great for sharing online via social media channels and as part of an email marketing campaign.

Infographic investment delivers excellent value for money, as they represent 'evergreen content' that can be successfully reused, often over many years.

7. Video Marketing
Use the popularity of video to build brand awareness.

Video marketing ranges from professional explainer, product videos and showcases, to quick anecdotes filmed on the spot with nothing more than a basic mobile phone. Think about what sort of videos you enjoy and what type of video content will work well with your unique audience.

8. Social Media Engagement - Share Your Story
Tell your story and grow your brand.

Allocate just 15 minutes each day to engaging with your customers online to see results over time.

Select two or perhaps three platforms to get started. Aim to share new content several times per week. Keep it simple and doable by sharing product images, customer testimonials or information about current sales and promotions. Again, many tools are readily available to help with content ideas and distribution.

9. Email Marketing
Stay in contact with your customers by email.

Your best customer has already converted. Keep your prospects and customers engaged long term with a monthly email marketing campaign. Email marketing is very low cost and provides a very high return on investment. Do not neglect email outreach!

10. Invest in SEO
Optimise on-page and off-page SEO for best results.

Make certain that your website is optimised for Google and search. On-page optimisation refers to your actual website pages regarding technical performance metrics, and off-page optimisation refers to such actions as link-building. Both are important.

Digital Marketing for Brand Awareness - Conclusion

What is the bottom line?

Digital marketing is a do-able way to boost your brand, and convert more customers. It can be simple - and really comes down to systematically fine-tuning a range of elements to work for you - to achieve your goals.

Quick Tips to Get Started
Here are a few quick tips to get you thinking.:

• Start with your logo and brand. Give it an honest review.

• Consider carefully your website and how it is performing.

• Review your competitors. What are they doing well?

• Understand where you fit in your marketplace.

Make a roadmap for success in 2023. 

As was said in the opening Proverb:

'Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you.'
(Proverbs 4:25)

Keep your eyes on your brand and set your path straight to know and serve your customer.

Prosperity is always the result of consistent effort.

Good luck for the year ahead!

Saul Edmonds.
Founder and Creative Director of Roundhouse

ARE YOU Looking to Grow Your Brand?

Get to know Saul Edmonds & Roundhouse

As Creative Director & Roundhouse Founder Saul Edmonds has over 20 years professional brand, design and digital experience. 

He is an international expert on Brand, Website and App Development. He has worked with clients across all industry groups - including startups, small business, government and entrepreneurs - on projects of all sizes and budgets.

Saul and his team can help you grow your business.

Book an obligation free consultation with a qualified brand marketer.


phone : 1300 727 749
email : us@roundhouse.cc

Get started now. Contact us here.

Learn about our brand design solutions here.
Learn about our graphic design solutions here.

See our brand and logo portfolio here.

If you enjoyed reading this article, you may also enjoy the following:

1. 5 Keys to Successful Marketing with Catalogues

2. How to Boost Revenue with a Great Point of Sale

3. 5 Ideas for Creative Marketing with Booklets

Roundhouse - The Creative Agency

Connect with Saul Edmonds on Linkedin here.

Author - Saul Edmonds

Successful people ask better questions, and as a result, they get better answers.
Tony Robbins

What are the Secrets to the World's Most Successful Mobile Apps?

When it comes to creating to most successful mobile app, it is a unique combination of hard work and luck. While those two factors play a huge role in the success of the app, if your customers don't need the app, they aren't going to be buying the app.

Identifying a problem is half the battle, the rest is creating an app that addresses that problem and easily solves it. Here are just a few of the reasons behind why the most popular apps are so successful.

InstaGram

You might think that InstaGram is just another photo social media platform with little ability to rally the troops into buying your app. Here is where you might be surprised however. The designers behind that successful platform knew they had a winner right out of the box. They had to find a way to convince the masses. They simply gave out a test version to the most popular social site in the industry, Twitter, and the rest is history. The owner on Twitter was using the app long before it hit the app store, using it to send pictures to his own Twitter followers. Once word spread on Twitter, the magazines and news feeds caught wind, and the users jumped from 25,000 to 3000,000 in less than a month. The makers of this app were not content on that immediate success. That is what makes them so successful. They continued to improve the image quality and screen resolution. The company continues to move against the grain by creating an app that is extremely easy to use. Kids of all ages today can learn how to use the app in seconds, and now that audience is in the millions. 

SnapChat

The founders of SnapChat got their target audience buzzing long before it became the mainstream app it is today. The original idea was only spread among some college friends at Stanford University. The popularity did not really gain traction until it was recognized in high schools, and communication between teenagers is what sparked the power of this successful app. The viral growth this app experienced was due to group messaging. The user simply sends a message to multiple friends, and yet the messages all seem personalized. The platform evokes high emotions with a very minimal effort. The fact that the snaps all disappear within seconds of them being sent makes it a popular choice for teenagers. They realize that as soon as they post the message, it is gone from the peering eyes of their parents or anyone else close enough to read over their shoulders. The app found a niche with a different market by focusing on a small group of college students. They had no idea at the time the true target audience was much younger and much more influential.

Evernote

The story behind Evernote is one that should inspire anyone considering getting their app to the market today. This app hit it big right out of the gates, over a million users on day one alone. All that was used to attract that audience was a well crafted press release and closed beta. The closed beta was the spark behind the initial interest, allowing that small group of users to tell the world about this incredible new product. the test group was very small, but that goes to show how the power of word of mouth can really explode your app and the popularity in the app store quickly. The one thing Evernote did different than most other apps, they took the time to develop all the different platforms before the initial release. They were committed to making sure it was available on all platforms for all users on day one. This was the catalyst for Evernote to be able to showcase their app on every type of device available at the time.

If you take one thing from all the successful apps out there, it is to be true to your belief you have a great app, and go against the grain if you have to in order to reach your audience. If the app solves a problem, it will find the intended target audience when it does. Don't try shortcuts for instant success, be true to your app.

IS EMAIL WORKING FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

Roundhouse has been delivering bespoke email marketing design and management services since 2001. Our tailored email campaigns deliver immediate results and are a proven way to boost customer engagement and foster leads. Our talented team of design experts work closely with you to create precisely what you need.

Get started now. Contact us here.

Book an obligation free consultation now.

Phone : 1300 727 749 

Learn about the full range of our solutions here

If you enjoyed reading this article, you may also enjoy the following:

1. How to Sell Your Brand in a Sentence

2. 7 Ways to Boost Your Sales With Social Media

3. A Guide to Brand Communications

Roundhouse - The Creative Agency

Author - Saul Edmonds

Connect with Saul Edmonds on Linkedin here

Your brand and your business are inextricably linked. Your customers will never think of your business without simultaneously thinking of your brand.

Why?

Humans are primarily visual by nature. We don't think naturally in facts and numbers, we think in feelings, images and stories.

Your brand is the visual representation of your business in its entirety.

Business owners are reminded that a brand is more than a logo.

When it comes to branding - it is always the big picture.

Consider your brand as the sum of all the touch-points by which your customers know you.

From your logo, to your website, to your service offerings, to your customer care policies, to your internal and external communication...plus a lot more.

Your brand represents a living snapshot of your business as a whole.

Brand Experience Defined
"A brand experience is the holistic sum of brand communications as perceived by target customers." Saul Edmonds - Director of Roundhouse, The Creative Agency

'Brand Experience' is the term used to describe your brand 'holistically'. It is also referred to as the '360 degree' brand experience.

It is your brand as seen from above - the big picture, the whole thing.

If you take the time to understand your brand in this way, and work to build your brand consistently over time, across all touch-points, you will grow your business in many new ways.

Growth in business is always linked to improved communication, improved messaging, improved outreach - all of which in turn nurture an improved bottom line.

This is especially so in the digital space. Consistent branding is a key aspect of any digital strategy and online marketing initiatives.

Brand Experience Design

Brand Experience is not just for big business.

Whether you realise it or not - you are already delivering a brand experience.

Remember that your 'Brand Experience' is how your customers engage, percieve and respond to your services, products and company. It is analogous to your 'company reputation'. Do you have a reputation for friendly, efficient service? Are you trusted by your client base? Is your service a memorable one?

Again, all of this goes back to the human experience. Remember, people are visual by nature. We think in terms of feelings and images instinctively. We are built this way.

A better understanding of how people think will help you to grow your business.

Brand experience is not really 'subjective'. Most people do actually want the same things. Everybody wants friendly service and quality outcomes at the right price.

It is really about you knowing your customer and tailoring your offerings to meet their needs.

It all begins with meeting your customer and ends with you successfully fulfilling your customer's needs.

A rewarding brand experience creates a positive message that encourages the return of your customers for repeat business. It inspires them to share their experience within their circle of influence, which in turn stimulates further interest in you, your business and your brand.

How to Deliver a Better Brand Experience.

Your business is you, your story and how you serve your customers.

Branding is finding how to bring that big story together to communicate your message consistently and clearly to your audience.

Tell them who you are, how you are different and how you can help them.

Brand Experience is not for big business - it is for every business.

Just take a moment to view your business from above, in a plane as it were. See the big picture. Focus on the various touch-points of communication and find ways to make them work better for you.

This is the beginning of understanding and strengthening your brand experience.

Your customers will thank you for it.

Is Your Brand Experience Working For You?
At Roundhouse, we understand the importance of making a memorable brand statement and delivering a unified brand experience. Talk to us to learn more about how to grow your business and get more clients with our tailored brand experience design services.

We are here to help.
Get started now. Contact us here.

Book an obligation free consultation with a qualified brand marketer.
phone : 1300 727 749
email : us@roundhouse.cc

Learn about our graphic design services here.

See our brand and logo portfolio here.

If you enjoyed reading this article, you may also enjoy the following:
1. 5 Keys to Successful Marketing with Catalogues

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Author - Saul Edmonds
Roundhouse - The Creative Agency

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If you think in terms of a year, plant a seed; if in terms of ten years, plant trees; if in terms of 100 years, teach the people.

Confucius

Annual reports are more than just information, facts and figures.

Annual reports should look good.

They should be 'on brand', tell your story and communicate your successes across the year that was, while establishing your vision and promise for the year to come.

Why not make a memorable statement with your next annual report?

To help you take your annual report to the next level, we have put together a checklist of key points to consider when choosing the right design agency for this important project.

Annual Report Designers

Quality design lays at the heart of every great Annual Report.

It is all about the design. The layout, the brand, the colours, the style, the message.

To make your report even better than in previous years, you will need to find the right graphic design team.

Seek a design agency that has extensive experience across a wide range of sectors. Review recent works and discuss potential creative design solutions.

Take the time to communicate your goals clearly. Learn about their design process.

Annual Report Design Elements

Effective annual report design is the sum of many parts.

With a greater understanding of the annual report design process, you will be better equipped to find the right design team who can realise your vision for your project.

The key parts of the annual report design process are listed here:

1. The Concept, Brand & Story

Keep in mind that your brand tells your story in a range of ways. It is critical that your brand story infuse all of your company communications. This is particularly so with regards to your annual report.

Ensure that your annual report presents your brand and story clearly throughout. This will ensure reader engagement.

2. Consider Integrating Infographics

Remember, people take in information best visually. Infographics are a great addition to every annual report and can be further integrated into other company publications to help educate and inform shareholders, clients and prospects.

3. Typography – Where Presentation Meets Education

Typography requires a great deal of creative experience to work effectively.

The key point, with regards to typography, is that it must be readable for your audience. If font sizes are too small, for example, the balance between design and functionality can be compromised.

When approving typographic layouts - always think of your reader first. Can they read the information? Is the layout conducive to promoting understanding?

4. Annual Report Size & Formats

Gone are the days when every annual report had to conform to A4 size.

While A4 size is still preferred for a wide variety of reports, that does not have to be the case.
Increasing, annual reports are no longer printed - instead they are in an easy to read digital format. Some annual reports even have dedicated websites, or web pages.

Talk to an annual report design agency that has experience is designing print reports as well as digital reports. Discuss your options. A digital annual report will save you money on printing, as well as offer easier distribution amongst stakeholders.

Many options exist out there. Talk to an agency that can help you discover what is the best fit for your company.

5. A Design Partnership Built On Trust

Above all else, strive to find an agency that you trust.

Look for positive people that will get in and get the work done ahead of schedule.

The Annual Report Design Process

Get to know every stage of the design process.

Every annual report project should start with lots of questions and comprehensive research.

A dedicated annual report design process will consist of the following steps:

1. Research, planning and objectives overview

2. Creative direction and design concept delivery

3. Initial designs, style and layouts formulated for review

4. Content review including data, infographics, images and more

5. Design development including review and refinement

6. Final design approval, proof-reading, editing and sign off

7. Production - print or digital

8. Final delivery and distribution

Above all, find an agency that will deliver on its promises.

A proactive approach is favoured at all times. Ensure that you - and any other stakeholders - are kept in the loop.

Make your Annual Report be the best it come be with beautiful design.

Are you looking for a trusted Annual Report Design Agency?

At Roundhouse, we understand the importance of delivering a world class annual report to your stakeholders. Talk to us to learn more about how to grow your business with our dedicated range of annual report design services.

We are here to help.

Get started now. Contact us here.

Book an obligation free consultation with a qualified social media marketer.

phone : 1300 727 749
email : us@roundhouse.cc

Learn about our graphic design services here.
See our brand and logo portfolio here.

Author - Saul Edmonds
Roundhouse - The Creative Agency

We can help you succeed online.

Today we will provide an overview of effective and affordable app marketing strategies.

Keep in mind that developing your app is only the first part of your journey as an app entrepreneur. Whether you are seeking to monetise you app or gain audiences for influence, your toughest journey starts now.

Never think 'Build it and they will come'. In my experience, it never works that way. (Field of dreams or dreamers on a field?)

To achieve a real, measurable return on you investment - you must actively seek out an audience for your app.

This will require marketing.

If possible, always ensure you retain at least a modest budget for app marketing purposes. It is true that many app marketing strategies are 'free' or 'low cost'. But even so, they will require a significant investment time, dedication and patience. Small daily actions and the long term goal.

To succeed in the app marketplaces - you need to think marketing.
And so succeed in marketing - you need to think 'people first'.

Like any small business - you have to build from the ground up.

You have to reach out and genuinely connect with people - especially your target customers. Your key goal is to build your app's brand - share your story - inspire your audience - and motivate them to download.

Hopefully, they will tell their friends about it - and your download numbers will rise.

But first, you need a plan - a strategy for success. An app marketing strategy.

Think of your app marketing plan as the final stage in your app development process.

Wait a minute, you many say. I have just finished developing my app. Isn't that the end of this process?

No. In many ways it is just the beginning.

And now, a quote!

Epicurus once said, "To be rich is not the end, but only a change, of worries."

Firstly, who was Epicurus?
Epicurus lived in Ancient Greece from 341 BC to 270 BC. He was an influential philosopher. You may have heard of the term 'Epicurean' in relation to gourmet food and luxury. This term derives from Epicurus - who put great faith in the material, observable world of the 5 senses.

Let's hear the quote again "To be rich is not the end, but only a change, of worries."

To me this quote seems to come from personal experience. I can Epicurus observing those who sought success as a marvellous end goal. But in reality, success - as Epicurus knew over 2000 years ago - is never that simple.

Achieving and maintaining goals demands hard work.

Similarly, To be have completed your app, is not the end of the process.
But it is the beginning of a new phase in your journey as an app entrepreneur.

Take it step by step. It is not as complicated as it seems, and needn't be expensive.

Consistent actions, implemented, monitored and improved over time -
with yield the best results.

The is the best formula for sucesss - both in business and in regards to app marketing.

What are Top 5 App Marketing Strategies?

1. Start with App-Store Optimization

• App Store Optimization is known as

• It is a core app marketing activities.

• It promotes your products visibility to target users

• You set appropriate keywords, meta-data, and descriptions which determine how your app is ranked on the AppleApp Store and Google Play.

• Carefully choose target keywords. Include them in your app’s title. Your goal is to connect with targeted users. Be clear on who your audience is - and tailor your app's description to help them discover and understand the benefits of your app.

• A key element of effective ASO is visual design. This includes your app icons and screenshots. Ensure that all your graphics represent your app - and your app's brand - professionally and consistently to boost appeal and promote engagement.

• Continue tweaking your ASO over time - reviewing keywords, tags to gain maximum ROI.

2. Add In Social Media Marketing

• Take advantage of social media channels to engage target users and build an audience.

• Create active profiles on all the most popular platforms such as Facebook, Youtube, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn etc. Post regularly - daily if possible. Posts need only be short - but aim to provide innovative, targeted content that will resonate with your customers.

• Ensure that your app's brand is well defined. Tell your story. Talk about you and your personal journey to develop this app.

• Present 'how to' videos and showcases of your app features and benefits in action. Help your users make the most of all that your app has to offer.

• Use social channels to keep your customers engagements long term - in regards to new versions of your app, updates and bug fixes.

• Ask for user feedback - and implement suggestions, keeping people informed in the process.

• Use social media to let your customers know more about you - the person behind the app.

3. Use Traditional Advertising to Acquire Customers

• Target your audience with a social media campaign.

• Develop a clear profile of your target customers. Understand their goals. A more highly targeted social campaign will reduce costs and maximise your return on investment.

• Try mobile advertising. There are a variety of options here - where your ad is shown to prospects via their mobile device.

• Use content marketing. Create tailored infographics, animations, articles and videos that share your values and showcase all that your app has to offer.

• Use ad networks to boost brand recognition amongst targeted users.

• Encourage users to provide email contact details. Use email marketing to build relationships.

Take Advantage of Media Outreach, Testimonials and Reviews

• Create a press release and branded media kit.

• Network with other app developers and entrepreneurs.

• Ensure your app has a website. Include a blog to build engagement.

• Feature testimonials and positive reviews.

Maintain User Engagement and Engage Long Term

• Find innovative ways to maintain user engagement over the long term

• encourage sharing and provide incentives for people to share your app and spread the word across their personal networks.

Your Customers Are Your Brand Ambassadors
Remember, that your customers have the potential to be your best brand ambassadors.

A happy customer is the best marketing strategy.

Provide rewards, incentive influencers and encourage co-creation - as you build a community around your app and your users.

Good luck with your app marketing strategies and most of all, enjoy getting out there - and sharing your app with the world.

OK. First the short answer:

Of course, Mobile UI stands for Mobile Interface Design.

In essence, it's your front end app design.

It's your visual layout, your navigation, your colours, your design features - it's all these and more. It's how your users interact and experience your app in real time.

In mobile UI, the 'u' stand for user.
Always design for the you.
This is user-centric design.

Remember, th most successful apps are always built for the user.

Now back to our key topic: What is Mobile UI?
Now for the long answer!

In getting to know more about the 'Mobile User Interface', we'll be asking the following questions:

• What are the elements of Mobile UI?

• What is the Mobile UI design process?

• What are the most popular Mobile UI prototyping tools?

• What are the key responsibilities of Mobile UI designers?

Now before we get into things, lets look at a quote. This one is from Aristophanes.

He said, "You cannot teach a crab to walk straight."

Aristophanes was an Ancient Greek playwright. He lived circa 450 BC - 388 BC. He is known as the greatest representative of ancient Greek comedy - he's funny, bold, outrageous and big on fantasy.

With "You cannot teach a crab to walk straight" - Aristophanes, in his own funny way, compares crabs to people.

He knows that crabs will always be crabs.

Yes, crabs are experts at moving sideways - but due to the limitations of their physical nature - they can only ever move sideways. They can not 'try harder' and retrain to crawl forwards.

Like crabs - we, as people, have a discrete set of frameworks that we operate within.

For effective mobile UI design - developing a keen understanding of these frameworks is key.

Deliver value, not complexity.

Understand people. ('U' isn't just for 'user' - it's also for 'understanding')

Get to know your user.
Strive to understand them better.
Help them in real ways.

The over arching goal here - is to deliver effective, genuine service.

Positive business outcomes are best achieved by helping others.
Give is gain.

So, what are the elements of Mobile UI?

Mobile interface design begins as a visual mockup within a series of flow chart wireframes.

These visual screen mockups are the starting point for your user interface design.

But take a step back - before you get into your mobile ui design - you have to establish your brand.

Does every app need a brand?

Yes.

Your brand is way more than your logo. It's your vision, your 'big picture', the reason why you do what you do - with a laser point focus on the person who matters most: your user.

With so many apps available for download on the app stores, standing out from the crowd has never been more important.

Great branding - and great visual design - is what will set you apart from competitors. Be you. Forget the rest. Stay true to your user.

Get heard above the noise.

So - the first step of any app project, is always brand design. Through this process, your brand 'style' will be developed - this will include your app's logo, your unique brand colours, typography styles, iconography and more.

Don't underestimate great icon design. First impressions matter. Make sure your app's main icon design looks great visually and hits the target with your use.

So, what other elements are there to Mobile UI?
Apart from branding, the 'mobile user interface' design process - deals with the following elements:

• Visual Layout

• Navigational Hierarchy

• Menus & Typography

• Wireframes & Mockups

• Calls to Action & Usability Testing

• Clickable Prototypes

• Real World Testing, Gaining Feedback with an Ongoing Commitment to Improving User Experiences

Now, Let's talk about the process of mobile ui design.

1. User Research - mobile interface design always begins with your user. What are their needs? What are their goals? A great mobile experience must be built for your user. It's design for the real world.

2. Flow Charts, Logic & Calls to Action- What features does your app offer? How will you move logically from one screen to the next? Where will you click? What do you want want from your customer? What are your calls to action located?

This is your mobile's work flow.

Above all - consider how will this all come together to deliver a seamless user experience.

The second stage of mobile ui design, turn to flow charts to built a logical flow into the app that is user friendly.

3. Wireframes & Mockups - This is your roadmap. Visual mockups, app architecture and detailed wireframes are now developed - to map out what your app looks like across every screen, and to logically describe how it will work.

You will see your branding come to life - as your logo, icons and company colours are front and centre during this design stage.

4. Clickable Prototypes - A clickable prototype is essentially a clickable mockup of your app, viewable on your mobile device.

You will see precisely how your app will look and function in regards to usability and visual appeal - prior to beginning development.

5. User Testing and Revision
Get as much honest feedback as possible here. Where relevant, take on board suggestions and comments - and revise the app as required. But remember, always stay true to your own vision!

Changes are best made before development commences.

What are the most popular Mobile UI prototyping tools?

A clickable prototype ensures that your mobile user interface is thoroughly tested before starting back end development.

You get to experience you app as a user. It's like walking through a virtual model of your house, before it is even built.

The Top 6 Mobile App Prototype Tools
Go from a static design to a animated app experience - without any code! Fully interactive, high fidelity rapid prototypes that can be easily shared with test users.

1. Adobe Experience Design CC

2. UXPin

3. InVision – This is currently the prototyping market leader here.

4. Proto.io

5. Marvel

6. Balsamiq

And finally, what are the key responsibilities of mobile ui designers?

Overall, a professional mobile ui designer is responsible for the front end design of your mobile application.

They liaise closely with you, as the client, during front end development stages, and are responsible for user research and testing strategy. The emphasis in on design skills - not coding skills.

As people - we are primarily visual learners.

Visuals matter.

Aim to drive visual engagement.

Like the crabs that can only go sideways - we, as people - prefer to interact with apps that offer visual appeal.

But visuals must be met with substance.

Consider not only how your app looks, but also how it works - and most importantly how it helps.

These are the 3 key elements in that underscore every successful mobile UI design.

Today our aim is to help you better understanding your 'brand story'.

As we have often said - your brand resides within a broader context. And that broader context is your brand story.

But what exactly is a 'brand story', why is a good 'brand story' important, what does a 'brand story' consist of; and how do you tell it well?

There's a lot to cover! So, let's get started!

But first, a quote from Homer.

Homer said, "The journey is the thing."

Homer wrote two famous epic poems. These are the 'Iliad' and the 'Odyssey'.
When he lived is shrouded in mystery. Historians say he lived between the 12th and 8th centuries BC in the region of Asia Minor. This obscurity leads some academics to doubt his authorship and even authenticity.

But that does not matter for our purposes, where the words are the thing.

So what is Homer talking about here?

For myself, it's a reference to that common mindset - where we focus on the end goal, the finish line, the mountain summit - rather than the 'how, why, where and whens' and getting there. The 'getting there' part - when compared to that glorious moment of triumph and achievement -
seems almost dull and boring.

Who care's how you got there?
You did it, right? That's all that matters.

Ah, but Homer says, "The journey is the thing."

He values the journey. For Homer, it's more important than any destination.

Why?

A successful outcome demands a good process.
To reach your goals, you need a plan.

But above all, the journey itself is transformative. The journey changes you, along the way. You will be challenged, you will learn, you will grow - and that's a good thing. Experience is always the best of teachers.

If the journey is the thing, how does connect with branding?

How can your journey - inform your small business brand?

Your life journey is your story.

You small business brand takes on real meaning when you actively infuse your brand with your story.

This is your brand story.

It's all about you, how you share your message with the people who matter most - your customers.

What is a brand story? Why is a good brand story important?

As small business owners and entrepreneurs - to grow our business and gain leads - we need to find ways to connect authentically with people. Building a business is about building relationships.

But what about stories?

We know that - all children love stories. All people love stories.
We all love stories - that entertain, educate and enlighten us.

Storytelling is a powerful tool for brand building.

When your small business brand - is expressed in the context of a story - magic happens. People listen, People relate. People remember.

People love stories. And your brand's story is no different.

Use the power of storytelling to broaden your reach and strike a chord with your target audience.

Remember - is your brand is story, you are the storyteller.

Tell your story well.

Like every tale, a good brand story will have ups and downs, conflicts, resolutions and lessons learnt along the way.

Your unique life journey has real value here.

The most powerful mix is when you infuse your brand story with your personal life story.

Tell your story. Be authentic. Build your brand upon your own true experiences.

People value the truth. Share your truth.

And yes, the journey is the thing. (Thanks, Homer)

What does a brand story consist of?

Telling your brand story - is all about taking advantage of benefits of story telling.

Your brand story is a strategic, yet authentic story that you proactively share with your audience - to stand out amongst competitors, increase leads and ultimately grow revenue.

But what are the key elements of an effective brand story?
What does a brand story consist of?

Let's break it down a little.

Getting started is easy.

The journey starts with you.

• What's your personal mission?

• What's your vision?

• What are your values?

• What problems can you solve?

• How can you help others?

• Who is your precise target customer?

These simple questions help you find your brand story and understand how to use your story to reach out meaningfully to others.

Tell your story to engage and inspire your customers, leads and prospects. While your journey starts with you - it ends with your customer.

Find ways to tell your story - that works from your customer's point of view. Understanding your customer - and striving to deliver real benefits to them - is always paramount.

But remember, a story told from the heart will always find a mark.

At the end of the day, a good brand story works for marketing your business.
It is a cost effective strategy - that informs your business holistically.

How do you build your a brand story?

Ultimately, you brand story helps you know your customer better, communicate your product & service benefits, and turn your prospects and leads into buyers.

Ensure that all stakeholders across your business - from management to employees - share the same vision.

Keep it simple. Make it easy to know, easy to tell. Think problem - solution - benefits.

Keep your message consistent across all your touch points - from your website, to social media, to customer relations and more.

Remember, your brand story gets to the heart of what your small business is all about. It's the big picture.

But - How do you put your brand story all together?

Keep in mind that there are two people in this equation - you and your customer.

Keep your customer uppermost in your mind at all times. Your goal is to meaningfully connect with your customer, so that they come to know you, your business, and how you can help them.

Be specific. Focus on a key theme. Don't try to be all things to all people.

Try to make your brand story compelling. Arrange your points in a logical order - beginning, middle and end.

Share your struggles. Think emotionally. Be truthful.

Your customer's deserve the best.

Tell the hero's journey.

Keep in mind that you're not the only hero here - your customer is the hero too.

This is also their journey.

And as Homer said, "The journey is the thing."

Your story - your brand story - is ultimately your customer's story too.

Your journey is their journey.
And a journey shared is a journey remembered.

Walk on.

In simple terms, your 'brand strategy' is how you strategically use your brand to grow your business.

Of course, your brand is way more than a logo.

It is your message.
Your voice.

Your brand gets to the very heart of your business - and how you share that story with others.

'Brand Strategy' - as a whole - is really a toolset of actions to propel your business forward in practical ways.

All brand strategies have simple goals:

• To get noticed.

• To be remembered.

• To earn engagement.

• To win leads.

• To increase revenue.

• To succeed longterm.

Branding is not only for big brands.

Even the smallest startup has a brand - whether they know it or not. In simple terms, that startup brand - is the sum total of how they present themselves to the world.

First impressions count.

Think of your brand as that set of core values, that drives you to 'do what you do'. Yes, it does include your logo - but it goes waaaay deeper than that.

Now, before go any further, let's look at a great quote from Sophocles.
"Do not fear for me. Make straight your own path to destiny."

Who was Sophocles? Sophocles was an ancient Greek playwright. His better known works include Antigone and Electra. He was born in 497 BC and died in 406 BC.

What is Sophocles saying here?

To me, his quote is all about confidence of mind, surety of vision. Daring do. To go where others fear to tread.

As about the brave journeymen who walks the straight and narrow, carving a path from A & B - to fearlessly meet his destiny and sup on the fruits of his labour; that sweet reward of a dream fulfilled.

Most small business owners and entrepreneurs will agree, that starting a small business - striking out on your own - does take a fair measure of confidence, nay bravery.

We are definitely the brave journeyman here.
And the small business journey is never easy.

To survive in small business, you have to ride the ups and downs - and keep on going. No doubt Sophocles had his own set of experiences here, establishing as he did, a career as a successful playwright over 2000 years ago.

Who among us can hope that our works will be remembered in 2000 years?
Congratulations on that one Sophocles!

Here's his quote again:
"Do not fear for me. Make straight your own path to destiny. "

Now, let's tie that quote back into branding.
In small business, your brand is your most powerful tool.

Simply by establishing your brand and standing by your values - you stand apart from others. Yet, 'Do not fear me.'

Use your brand wisely, strategically; go forge that straight path, and meet with your brilliant destiny head-on.

Every small business owner is a Braveheart - your brand is your sword.
Wield it wisely young one.

OK. Let's get into brand strategy.

To begin here, you must define your brand clearly.

Ask yourself these questions:
What does your business represent at it's core?
Who are your customers - how will you serve them?
How will you create the most value?
What is your unique point of difference?
What sets you apart from all the others?

Think of your brand as a story - and you are the storyteller, with a servant's heart.

Now go and add the YOU into this mix.
What have been your experiences?
What have you learnt?
What are your dreams?
Why did you start your business?
How do you share your vision?

In many ways - you are your brand. That's those authentic values and real life lessons that you bring to the table - that ultimately infuse your business with something very special.

You.

So, Brand Strategy - How Do You Get Started?

Your brand strategy is a plan of action.

It's a battle plan, a 'how to'.

It's 'how to' utilise your brand to maximum advantage - to connect with your customers - and grow your business long term.

Keep in mind that your brand should be represented consistently across all touch points - from your logo, to your customer service policies and employee relations - to ensure you send a consistent message.

In a nutshell, your brand strategy is your map from A to B. It is the map that guides your path to meet your destiny.

A word about budget here.

Branding need not be expensive.
It's mostly about ideas - ideas that represent your vision.
Tailor your ideas to fit your budget.

Building a successful brand does take time, dedication and clarity of purpose. Above all, aim to ensure every message you send - is consistent and on point.

Brand Strategy meets Real World

The next step in a building a brand strategy is to identifying the best ways to represent your brand to others - in particular your target customers.

Start with the big picture and work down from there.

Begin with Your Corporate/ Small Business Brand
Check your logo. Does it represent you?

Look for innovative ways to engage your audience authentically.
Stories are great here.

Aim to inspire trust and goodwill.

Make sure that your print & online advertising, your company website, plus your customer outreach strategies -are tightly unified - both visually and thematically.

Your Product/ Services Brand
Ensure your products are marketed to take advantage of all that your brand has to offer. This applied to your service offerings to.

Again, the goal is not to 'sell' but to educate. Think of how your unique products and services deliver real benefits to customers. Communicate those benefits with product packaging that stands apart from your competitors.

Your Personal Brand
Remember we said that in many ways 'you are your brand'?

As a small business owner or entrepreneur, you are definitely the key story teller and brand representative. Ensure your personal presentation and style compliments your brand and sends a positive message out there.

Your brand really is the big picture (of your small business).

Developing Your Brand

An effective brand strategy begins with you.

Identify strategic solutions that tell your story and connect with your target audiences.

This will help you lock in:

• your business name

• your logo

• your brand guidelines

• your product and service offerings

• your competitive points of differences

From there, review your targeted touch points.

What is a touch point?
Touch points are the points at which your customers interest with your brand.
These are the points of experience and discovery.

These are the points where it all gets real.

Consider carefully how you will reach your audience - and how they in turn will connect with you.

These are your mission critical touch points - where your brand message has to be most clear.

Key touch points for every business include:
Your Logo
Your Website
Company Brochures & Print Material
Custom Email Signature

So, in concluding our overview of brand strategy, let's list the most common touch points you can make use of to strategically build your brand.

Find ways to build your brand with:
Customer Referrals
Media Outreach
Social Media Channels
Testimonial Customer Reviews
Charity Outreach and Sponsorship
Excellence in Customer Experiences
Quality Customer Service
Mobile Apps
Responsive Website
FAQ Pages
Product & Service Information
Branded Marketing & Advertising both online & offline
Strategic Partnerships

Building your business takes time.
Building your brand takes time.

It is a journey. It is the path less travelled.

But - as long as your brand stays true to who you are - and what you represent as a business, you can't go wrong.

As Sophocles said, "Do not fear for me. Make straight your own path to destiny."

Find ways to connect with your customers, meet their needs - and you will reach your goals.

An engaging brand strategy, refined over time - is the best way to ensure that your path is a straight one; that it takes you where you want to go.

Thanks Sophocles and good luck with building your brand!

Today we ask the question:
What is a mobile app?

That's easy to answer, right?

Yes and no.

For a seemingly simple question, there is a lot to consider here.

What exactly is a mobile app? Is it a website? It is a web app? Is it software? Does it reside on my device - or on a server? What about native? Did someone say hybrid?

Yes, the digital landscape is littered with jargon. Jargon is barrier to effective communication.

Let's try to simplify.

Today, we hope to help out here: 'What is a Mobile App?'

But first a quote from Thomas Aquinas:
"The things that we love tell us what we are."

Thomas Aquinas was an Italian catholic priest and scholar. He lived from 1225 AD to 1274 AD.

His quote is a brilliant one - and gets to relationship between ourselves and our things.

What's in a thing?

Our 'things' are those material possessions we value most highly. What we desire, what we attain, what we keep, what we love - those things that we hold most dear - betray our deepest self and truest being: both to us and those we share our lives with.

A preference for 'minimalism' is on the rise. Many people today want less things, less clutter, less material.

While this may be true - almost everyone has a mobile phone. This is one material thing - no one wants to live without. Everyone - from older children to older citizens and everyone in between. We love our mobiles. Even minimalists love their apps.

What does that say about us?
At the core, mobile technology keeps us connected.

As people - we need other people.

And that's a good 'thing'.

Now - back to our key question:
What is a mobile app?

OK.

Firstly, the term 'mobile app' is short for mobile application.

Here, application refers to a software system - a set of tools.

A 'mobile app' is a software system, designed for use on smartphones and tablets.

It is a standalone application, built specifically for mobile devices.

This is in contrast to applications developed for desktop computers (such as Microsoft Office or Mac OS) - or web applications that run in browser.

OK. But what about native apps?

What is a native app?

Whoo. Hang on there!
Is a native app the same thing as a mobile app?

Yes it is - but - a native app is a specific type of mobile app.

You have Android. You have iOS. There is the Window's phone and Blackberry too.

Each of these have there own, unique operating system.

Each system is different.

Native apps have to be individually built to work on each operating systems.

A native app - works natively.

So - if you have a great mobile app idea - and you want to take advantage of the android marketplace - you have to develop a native android app.

If you want to connect with iPhone specific audiences - you have to develop a native iOS app.

Each platform is unique, Each app requires a separate set of code, built from the ground up, line by line.

Native apps are accessed via the app marketplaces - that's Google Play and the Apple App Store - and downloaded to reside on the mobile device itself.

Native apps are great for working offline too.

Ok. What about web apps?

Is a 'web app' the same thing as a 'mobile app'?

While web app may look and feel like a native app - it is not a native app.

• It is not downloaded onto your device.

• It is not coded separately for Android and iOS.

• It is not available via the app marketplace.

A web app is a website.

It's a website optimised for use via mobile devices.

Web apps run inside web browsers and are usually built with Javascript, CSS3 and HTML5.

Of course, you need the internet to use your web app - no offline access here.

A web app is not custom coded for each device - it's a one size fits all.

That means significant savings on development costs and project timelines. You can get your product to market faster as a web app.

Before launching into native development, ask your developer if your app idea would work as a web app.

While some apps definitely need to be developed natively, it is worth exploring this option.

Some popular web apps are LinkedIn and Dropbox.

Next Question: Is A Web App The Same As A Website?

No.

Here's the difference.

A simple business website consists of pages - a set of pages that you access via a web browser such as Safari.

This website is static.
You click, you read.
The information here is not interactive.

But with 'web apps' - you get to engage and get interactive.In fact, user engagement is a key feature of web applications. Facebook is a great example here. Dynamic engagement delivers value and encourages active participation.

Websites are typically built use CSS, HTML and Javascript. Web Apps use these too - but in addition utilise programmes languages such as PHP, Ruby, Python, Django, and CakePHP for framework and database management.

What About Hybrid Apps?

A 'hybrid' is a mix.
A 'hybrid app' takes advantage of both native and web based technologies.

It tries to bring together the best of both worlds - providing the enhanced user performance that native apps deliver - while offering cost and time savings that the web apps are well known for.

Will your app idea work as a 'hybrid app'. Maybe - this has to be assessed in line with your vision, as well as your goals, budget and marketing objectives.

Ask your app developer if a hybrid app is right for you.

So - from mobile apps, to native apps to web apps and even hybrid apps - we have aimed to provide a simple introduction to shed some light on 'What is a mobile app?"

Let's finish with Thomas Aquinas:
"The things that we love tell us what we are."

People love technology. People love their mobiles.

But above all - people love to connect meaningfully with other people.

Consider how you can help people better connect with each other - to deliver a successful app that people really love.

Good luck with your next app development project!

Today we will address the topic of 'mobile banking development'.

In doing so we will ask the following questions:

• What are the key features of a great mobile app banking experience?

• How can financial institutions gain more market share with a great app?

• And finally, What is the step by step process when developing a mobile banking app?

Today is a mobile-centric world. We rely on our smartphones - and are rarely without them.

Life is busy - and we need easy, reliable and secure access to our money when we need.

Mobile Banking Apps provides users with flexible ways to access funds on the go. While increasingly popular with users, mobile banking apps also offer significant benefits to the financial institutions.

The commitment to a superior and competitive mobile banking experience fosters long term customer loyalty.

But what constitutes a great banking experience, what are the benefits here, and how it all put together?

Before we tackle these questions, first a quote. Today from Marcus Tullius Cicero.

“We are bound by the law, so that we may be free.”

Cicero was an Ancient Roman lawyer and philosopher. He is most famous for his oration skills, and lived form 106 BC to 43 BC.

Let's hear his quote again:
“We are bound by the law, so that we may be free.”

For myself, this quote relates to the advantages of law.

Strong, fair law - justly implemented - is the foundation of peace. As a community, we willingly live within the frameworks and jurisdiction of laws and dictates - to guarantee our security, promote prosperity and maintain personal freedoms.

Mobile banking apps offer a similar set of advantages.

The guarantee security of paramount, we need the freedom and flexibility to access our funds on demand, and of course, we all share the dream of prosperity.

So let's get started on 'Mobile Banking Development' with our first question:

What are the key features of a great mobile app banking experience?

Firstly, it must be noted that most financial institutions have multiple apps to service individual client needs - which vary in scope.

Most banks today provide an all purpose comprehensive banking app - for payments, ATM transfers, account summary, customer service etc.

Some financial institutions offer additional niche banking apps - tailored to customer needs and product offerings. Common examples here include:

• Branded Credit or Loans Apps

• Digital Wallet Apps

• Wealth Management Apps

• and Video Banking Apps

Whilst niche is good, without careful implementation - too many apps can deliver a fragmented user experience. Is it wise to separate your targeted offerings into separate apps - or will a fully featured, integrated solution work best for you.

Consider carefully how your mobile banking experience will function as a whole - and strategically access the pros and cons of each separate application.

Easy to use features and a clear interface design is always paramount. Again - customer care must be front and centre here.

Here are some key checkpoints to ensure your banking app meets the needs of your customers whilst ensuring security protocols:

• Easy and secure customer registration

• Simple login procedures with a mapped User ID and 4-6 digit pin

• Fingerprint Scan ID

• Clear Brand Messaging and Value Propositions

• Easy Navigation & Summary Screens

• Integrated Customer Care Solutions (to reduce calls and in-bank visits)

• Status Tracking

• GPS tracking for ATM location

• Calendars, alerts, reminders and reward prompts

• Interactive Help & FAQ

A popular banking app will grow your market share. Deliver innovation with
customer-centric solutions that meet the individual needs of your target user.

Remember, according to Cicero - “We are bound by the law, so that we may be free.”

While we may indeed be 'bound' by the law - we don't want to see it. We want to focus on freedom, lifestyle and what's on this weekend! Similarly, your banking app has to focus on the positive - providing a modern, easy to use and value packed user experience. You want people to love your banking app. Positive user experience will grow your client base.

So, how can financial institutions gain more market share with a great app?

It is simple. Find new ways to meet the needs of today's market. Think outside the box and discover innovative ways to bring value to your customers.

Here's some innovative mobile banking features that might be good fit for your next app:
1. Peer to peer payment systems
What is a peer to peer payment system?

It's person to person. Direct transfers between people.

Think Paypal. Paypal have dominated the peer to peer payment landscape for over a decade. More financial institutions are offering initiatives in this area and customers appreciate the independence it offers. There is lots of scope for innovation here.

2. Voice banking
Voice banking is an emerging technology and tipped to be incredibly popular. Here, customers are able to purchase items, pay a bill, send money and more with a simple voice command.

Early adopters of voice banking can reap rewards if voice banking is strategically integrated into mobile offerings.

3. Budget Planners
Your customers are keen to find news ways to save and invest. Review the many budget and money planners available on app marketplaces and integrate the best features into your next banking app. Seek to find new ways to improve what is currently out there and add your own brand flavour to the experience.

What is the step by step process when developing a mobile banking app?

OK. You and your financial institution are considering a new mobile app.
Now, what steps does the development process include?

1. Comprehensive design and ideation phase.

Let's get started! First and foremost, your app must be designed for your user. As stated previously, you want people to fall in love with your app! Usability and interface design are key challenges. Ideas and alternative solutions are discussed in the context of market competitors. Goals, budget and timelines are established. Detailed wireframes are carefully designed to represent your brand and achieve your goals.

2. Development of Proprietary APIs

For those not familiar, an API is simply an Application Programming Interface.
APIs permit applications to communicate efficiently between each other. To ensure security and bespoke functionality your mobile banking app will require the development of a proprietary API. This represents the beginning of the development phase.

3. Build Security With Sandboxes

Sandboxing is a defensive application development and management strategy.

It isolates applications from system critical resources and provides an additional layer of security. This prevents malware, spyware or viruses from negatively impacting upon your system.

Mobile-only banking apps requires the usage of a sandbox during development. This ensure a secure environment during which development can proceed safely and smoothly.

4. Build Security With Encryption

Software encryption keeps your data safe from hackers. Use a password strength checker to ensure that encryption levels are high. Security, privacy information protection are always critical concerns.

5. Test UI and UX

Include real world customer testing to ensure your user experience and interface design really deliver on performance.

Above all, keep it simple - but stay true to your brand and your values.
Aim to stand apart in the banking marketplace and invest time to discover and take advantage of your key points of difference.

As Cicero said “We are bound by the law, so that we may be free.”

Mobile banking apps delivers on this promise of freedom - offering flexible solutions that far surpass those available to earlier generations. Take advantage of this opportunity - but above all else: get to know your target customer - and serve them well.

Today we are going to have a chat about location based mobile app development.

So, what is a location based app?

Location based apps are those apps that offer location based services.

These services make use of real time geo-data sourced directly from your smartphone. They take advantage of your device's inbuilt GPS technology.

If you have opted-in: these apps will use that location information to provide results and services tailored to where you are physically located at that moment, right down to your actual street address.

And the best thing about location based apps?

Thanks to the GPS functionalities in your smartphone - location based apps provide this information instantly - the user is not required to manually key in data.

Very user friendly.

Google Maps, Yelp and Uber offer well known location based services. Other apps include Instagram, Tripadvisor, Foresquare and Pokemon Go.

But before we go any further, let's look a quote.

That is: "Wherever you go, there you are."

This quote is usually attributed to Confucius - although his actual words were "Wherever you go, go with all your heart”.

Both statements are good - and encourage us to reflect upon - and be more conscious of - our location in world. That is, where we are in the 'now' - both our day, and in broader terms - our life.

Today - in the 'now' - most of us live an increasingly digital life.
Our smartphones are close at hand 24/7.

In fact, I have read that up to 94% of smartphone users between the ages of 18 and 49 use location based services regularly. We clearly love the convenience and tailored information they deliver.

Location based apps ensure that we can easily access key services we need in the 'now' - wherever we are, wherever we go, whatever we do - now!

Why location-based apps?

Today, more geo-dependent mobile applications are entering the market.

Let's pause to define the key functions of geolocation app development.

Would a location based app benefit your business?

Let's get to the benefits.

In a nutshell, location based mobile apps provide 4 key benefits to businesses:

1. Get Social - with location based social data: location based apps have the ability to know the precise location of other users.

2. Be Heard - with location based communications: location based apps enable users to engage, leave feedback, participate in reviews, provide map data that links to other content.

3. Be Helpful - with location based Information services: location based apps are great for delivering targeted information to the user about nearby objects or services - based on precisely where your customer is at that moment.
and finally,

4. Stand Out Amongst Your Competitors - with location based marketing services. Utilise geolocation to provide benefits and incentives to audiences. Meaningfully interact with your customers when they approach your store location.

How do companies make use of location based apps?

Remember that 94% of smartphone users between the ages of 18 and 49 use location based services regularly.

That's a lot and represents just about everyone!

With a location based app, you have access to more than 200 million US customers, and of course many more users world wide.

Location based services have great appeal and offer brands innovative ways to connect with target markets.

But - is a location based app right for your business and brand?

Let's check out how some industries utilise this personal GPS data to offer more advantages to clients and boost sales:

How Can Restaurants Use Location Based Data?

Did you know that 72% of users respond when they receive a call-to-action on their mobile device when passing by those restaurants or food outlets?

That is amazing - and really goes to show the power of personal marketing, reinforced by geodata.

For Restaurants, your location based app to offer discounts and special deals to customers when they are in your physical vicinity.

How Can Retail Use Location Based Data?

Retailers make use of location based apps to improve customer experiences.

They are used to provide directions, help locate onsite parking, in-store navigations and more. Interactive maps are useful here.

Location based mobile apps are also used to streamline the 'shop at home' process, where customers can pick up goods from delivery bays - without having to physically park and enter the store.

The key value here is - finding ways to use that personal GPS data to make your customers' life easier.

How Can On-Demand Services Use Location Based Data?

Providers of 'on-demand mobile services' connect users with service providers.

Uber is the top great example here. It has a market value of $72 billion and growing.

Location based mobile apps deliver tailored services with great speed and
efficiency - where users are able to track service providers via interactive maps.

To take advantage of on demand services - find new ways to connect your audience with service providers.

How Can Transport and Logistics Use Location Based Data?

Today, e-retail freight and shipment is big business.

Location based mobile services offers real benefits to the transportation and logistics industry. Customers can track goods in real times. Delivery times and mapping can be optimised to shorten timelines and optimise transport. This keeps the customer happy - and provides and opportunity for freighters to save on fuel cost. All good.

How Can Financial Services Use Location Based Data?

Financial service industry groups take advantage of location based apps to check personal id and reduce fraud. Transactions and information is cross checked in real time to ensure security protocols are maintained.

Location based apps also provide financial services with additional opportunities for customer service and outreach.

How Do You Create A Location Based App?

To create an app with location based features, you need to take advantage of mobile location services and maps via an API. API stands for Application Programming Interface (API) In simple terms, APIs allow applications to communicate with one another and share information.

So, how do you determine your users' location?

There are several ways here: and each method has it's advantages and disadvantages.

1. Where location is determined via GPS.
Here, user location is determined by satellite signals.

All mobile devices have a built-in GPS module that continuously receives satellite signals. This provides high accuracy location data at high speed.
Negatives here are battery life (GPS services rapidly use up a device's charge) and can be influenced by environments (e.g. signal dead spots, obstacles and atmospheres)

2. Where location is determined via Mobile Device ID.

When a GPS signal is not available - mobile devices are located via phone towers. Every device 'knows' which tower it is connected to at that moment.

Making use of the mobile device id makes a lot of sense, particularly in large cities. It works even when GPS signal is not available.

3. Where location is determined via Assisted GPS

Assisted GPS combines information from satellites and the internet.

Again, this provides highly accurate location data - and can be useful in 'problem' zones such as tunnels and forest.

4. Where location is determined via Bluetooth

A fourth option for determining user location - is that of bluetooth. The technology here is know as BLE or Bluetooth low energy. Here, bluetooth beacons are used to transmit and cross reference location data, without the need for internet connection. Although only suitable for indoor purposes with a small radius of action - BLE does gather high accuracy information on user location.

5. Where location is determined via Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi determines location here, usually via Google Maps. Simplicity is the key benefit here. Once connected to an active network, location is identified. The negative is smaller area coverage, compared to GPS.

6. Where location is determined via Geofencing
Firstly, what is geofencing?

Geofencing is a new technology that provides a 'virtual perimeter' around specific locations - within a radius of up to 500m.

Location data is gathered as users cross over these 'virtual perimeters'. Users can then be targeted with marketing messages via push notifications, for example.

And now, what are some tips for finding quality location based mobile app developers?

You have a great location based app idea for your business?
Where to now?

To find a location based mobile developer, research app development companies with these questions in mind:

• Is the developer experienced?

• Does the development team have the necessary resources for integrations and testing? Do they provide a fully integrated brand, front end and back end delivery process.

• What is the quality of their portfolio?

• What do their previous clients have to say? Be sure to ask for client testimonials and references.

But above all, aim to find a team you can truly partner with for the long term.
Where you come together to develop a great location based app that exceeds your business goals.

We started with a quote: "Wherever you go, there you are."

Wherever you business takes you, why not take advantage of mobile technology and find new ways to help your clients with a custom tailored location based app.

Good luck in your mobile app journey!

Making the most of public relations is a cost-effective way to market your business. To spark awareness with new prospects and maintain engagment with existing clientele.

Public relations is not just for big business. Public relations is for all businesses - from startups to those well established.

Remember - 'Public relations' refers to those outreach activities you do - to connect with your audience as people.

It's those activities that put you front and centre, in the minds of the people who matter most - your customers.

Staying top of mind is key.

Endeavour to discover meaningful ways to connect with your customers - to resonate and make a difference - and be remembered long term.

A public relations strategy is a great way to gain maximum advantage with minimal upfront cost. All that is required is you - and the time, persistence and yes, bravery; to reach out, speak out and be heard.

Public relations is great for growing a small business - but how does it work and what are some simple, low cost strategies we can implement here? And most importantly - will public relations deliver a measurable return on investment and boost our bottom line?

The answer is yes, yes and yes!

But, before we proceed any further, a useful quote from Sophocles.

This quote is: "Success is dependent on effort."
N Sophocles was an Ancient Greek playwright, who lived in Athens from 497 to 406 BC.

My guess is that striving to become a successful playwright in Ancient Greece was not a lot different to building a small business in the modern world.

Sophocles knew "Success is dependent on effort." He knew that to be a successful playwright - he would have to invest time, energy, soul and spirit and form a meaningful network of people behind the scenes (from actors to theatre owners and government officials) - to write the greatest of plays for the greatest of audiences.

This is exactly what we go through as business owners!

We have to invest our time, energy, soul and spirit - to deliver the best for our 'best' - that is our longterm customers, our trusted audience.

I think we can all agree with Sophocles - Success is 100% dependent on effort.

So that gives us encouragement with regard to public relations. Successful public relation is 100% dependent on effort.

Ok. Where do we go from here? How can Public Relations help in your business?

Firstly, the goal of an effective public relation is to create or change or reinforce public opinion.

Why not consider your public relation goals in the context of your brand - you goal is to create awareness of your brand, make positive changes to how your brand is perceived whilst reinforcing your brand values.

4 Reasons Why Public Relations Is Great For Business Marketing

When you’re planning your next round of marketing activities for your business, include public relations in your growth strategy.

Why? It is a proven performer. Consider these benefits:

• Public Relations Raises Brand Awareness

• Public Relations Generates Leads & Opportunities

• Public Relations Raises Your Profile Amongst Investors

• Public Relations Attracts Qualified Employees

OK.
How do you put that into practice? Why would you choose public relations over other advertising.

Firstly - although public relations - or PR can be low in terms of upfront cost - remember that it is never free. It takes time, energy, planning and dedication - but keep Sophocles in mind here, and that "Success is dependent on effort."

If done right, it is public relations that can give you your the best return on investment and truly take your business to the next level.

While not advertising per se - public relations does not target paid channels - it is a marketing tool; and a powerful one at that.

Public relations leverages intermediaries and intermediary channels to connect with and positively influence your target audience.

PR works best as part of a broader outreach campaign to connect and engage with industry spokespersons, investors, analysts, customers and prospects - across digital and offline channels - and in the process, ideally becoming a key person of influence yourself.

Public relations is not easy. It is a long distance race - think slow, steady and long term for the best results.

Keep in mind that you are your brand. Why not reach out - and share your story - people will respect you for it, and remember your business when they are ready to buy.

Don't ever sell. Forget persuading.

Just be you. Share what you know. Be honest. Really - that is all you need.

If it helps - think 'lo fi'. Just get started with the tools you have at hand. Again, this is not about 'money' - it is about ideas first and foremost.

Your ideas. Your story. You.

Today, in our digital age, people value authentically real content more than ever before.

Always keep in mind that your first goal in business is to serve your customer.
A servant's heart. Get to know your audience. What do they need? How can you help?

Build relationships - put yourself in other's shoes - remember what it was like when you started out. Try to connect with people one on one - whatever your chosen medium of communication.

How Do You Fit Public Relations Into Your Marketing Plan?

Public relations informs these essential marketing and brand building activities.

How does PR work in practice?

PR & Media Management

The goal here is to define an ongoing PR strategy that delivers maximum media exposure, promoting leads and building credibility. You media management has to align closely with your brand vision and business goals.

PR & Media Relations

The goal here is to deliver quality stories to media channels that promote your story, to find those points of interest that create interest and deliver value to your audience - whilst remaining on brand, in terms of message delivery.

PR & Brand Reputation

The key goal here is to be aware of your brand values - and work consistently to broadcast those values across all channels. This will build your brand's reputation over time.

PR & Corporate Communications

Ensure your internal communications promote your brand story and your core values while building positive connections between all stakeholders.

PR & Social Responsibility

Contemporary audiences care about the world at large. They demand corporate responsibility and positive social agendas in return for brand loyalty. Use PR to find innovative ways to build your business and help your broader community at the same time.

PR & Image Consultants

Every picture tells a story. Every image has a message. Make sure that all of your company visuals and images are on brand - and communicate the right way. A brand style guide is a great help it. It will detail how your brand will be represented across all media channels. This ensures that your message is clear and consistent at all times.

PR & Media Performance

Reach out to journalists, you tubers and other media personalities. Aim to keep your performance in line with your brand goals and PR strategy. Again, though - be yourself.

Just relax! You'll do great!

What do you need to get started with PR?

He is a simple go-to list to get started with PR?

This ensure your presentation is consistent and your brand message is clearly presented at all times.

Before getting started, review this list and take on board what is most relevant to you and your business:

• Your Logo

• Brand Statement

• Your Style Guide

• Associated Icons

• Service Examples

• Product Photos

• Demonstation Videos

• Corporate Videos

• Case Studies

• Testimonials

• Press Releases

• Social Media Profiles such as Facebook

• Your Biography

• Your personal motto Quotes

• Company Contact Details, Office Locations

This is just for starters. You website is of course a key way to feature all your information - but you can take it a step further with a bespoke media kit.

When Sophocles said "Success is dependent on effort," he got it right.

Put effort into your public relations activities and results will follow - as sure as night follows day. But keep it simple, diy and do-able. One step at a time.

Good luck with your public relations efforts - and trust in Sophocles - that consistent effort will always yield consistent results.

How does 'organic digital marketing' differ from 'digital marketing?
What does it include, how much does it cost - and will it deliver a return on investment?

Let's find out.

You have probably heard of 'digital marketing' - but organic digital marketing?

Isn't 'organic' just a produce term?

Whether or not you seek out organic product to eat, most of us would agree that 'organic' as a process offers benefits. It's more natural, less chemical - more integrated, less artificial - more home grown and less big business.

Most people see value in that which is lovingly crafted vs that which is mass produced.

Organic digital marketing isn't any different. It references that same 'organic process' - where real value, quality and consistency - increases your reputation naturally, bringing rewards over time.

You build your audience, you deliver targeted content, you write articles, do videos, get involved in your business community, you provide free help and advice. All of these are simple 'lo fi', natural ways to build your brand and increase your revenue without a lot of upfront cost.

Welcome to organic digital marketing.

So go share your message, get diy, : and grow your brand naturally, online.

But before we go any further, a quote from Sophocles:

He says - "One learns by doing a thing; for though you think you know it, you have no certainty until you try."

Sophocles was an Ancient Greek playwright. He lived in Anthens from 497 BC to 406 BC.

I like this quote. In that ancient age, Sophocles ideas still manage to get to the heart of how to approach 'organic digital marketing'.

Sophocles says - 'one learns by doing a thing.'

That is certainly true with regard to organic marketing. You just have to start. Dive in. Be authentic. Talk to your customer. Don't worry about high end production values. Keep it real. Do your best and adjust as you go. That is how you learn.

He reminds us that 'you have no certainty until you try'.

For Sopholes, you have to have faith in the process. As small business owners, we are always learning something new.

In this digital age - where online marketing can seem costly and confusing - it makes sense to try the organic approach, where simple is best and costs are low.

Think grass roots. Be organic.

Make a goal to do small outreaches daily - find ways to help your customers and prospects. Tend your garden. Watch it grow.

Now, back to our initial question : What is organic digital marketing?

The definition of 'organic digital marketing' is a simple one.

Digital Marketing - of course refers to any marketing that is online, digital, internet based.

Organic Digital Marketing refers to content marketing activities which provide value to customers and prospects over time. This is also referred to as 'inbound marketing' - where targeted people discover you 'naturally'.

This is in contrast to 'Paid Digital Marketing'.

'Paid digital' in this context - may be described as 'artifiical or non-natural'. Any market reach that you establish disappears when you finish your campaign. Visibility costs ongoing investment here.

Organic digital marketing whilst often free or low cost - does come with the price of time - investment, dedication and consistent actions, ideally maintained on a daily basis. Yes it's true - that as small business owners there is never enough time.

Yet advertising or marketing is an activity that few can do without. You need leads. And organic digital marketing is great for lead generation over the long term.

Once established 'organic marketing actions' are often referred to as 'ever green content'. Unlike 'paid marketing actions' that drop off the map advertising stops - organic content remains visible. It provides ongoing value to targeted audiences and returns an ongoing stream of quality leads and prospects, without ongoing cost.

Sounds good, hey?

Ok - let's get to some examples of Organic Marketing.

SEO Organic Marketing

For anyone who doesn't know, SEO stands for search engine optimisation.
This is where your website features naturally in organic search results, particularly on the first page.

Results on the first page will usually get clicks. And targeted clicks generate real world leads.

Action Tip: Blogs are great for SEO.

Google loves blogs. Never underestimate the importance of blogging.

Create highly targeted blog posts around keywords that your customers might use. Like with all marketing actions - find your point of difference here too. Don't just go for the most popular terms - where ranking is often fought over amongst the 'big boys'. Let them fight it out.

Instead target very specific niches. Include your location in blog post titles (particularly if you are target local clients). Get granular about your products and services.

I recommend making your website the focus of your attention and blogging is a great way to do just that.

Value your website. It is a key asset and a long term investment in your business - and blogging adds more value to your website over time. Your website increasingly offers more resources to your audience - and google will reward you with ranking.

But like starting a vege patch - organic digital does take time to grow.

Think of your blog posts as an opportunity to share relevant information with your own special audience. Be you, keep it simple and aim to help.

Then do it all over again.

Social Media Organic Marketing

Social media organic marketing - makes use of popular social platforms to spread your message. Think Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube, WeChat, WhatsApp and more.

There are sooo many social channels out there - it can be a bit overwhelming.

You have to be selective - and you must be strategic here. Each platform has it's own set of advantages.

How can a busy small business owner keep up with all of them?

There is a simple way. Really.

This is via your website and more specifically, your blog.

When you write a new blog post, you are able to auto publish it across the most popular social channels. It's automatic, it's simple - and it makes it easy for people to follow you via their preferred network - some customers prefer twitter, others Facebook etc.

Take advantage of auto publishing
Auto-publishing makes it easy to maintain activity across a variety of platforms at the same time.

If your website is built on the Wordpress platform - you can install a plugin to help you here. One example is Blog2Social. Blog2Social is a great Social Media Auto Post & Scheduler and I have included a link below: https://wordpress.org/plugins/blog2social/

Blog2Social lets you share and auto-post across a great many social channels including Facebook, Twitter, Google My Business, LinkedIn, XING, Instagram, Pinterest, Flickr, Reddit, VK.com, Medium, Tumblr, Torial, Diigo and Bloglovin.

Pretty good, huh?

If your website is built on the squarespace platform - you don't need to install a plugin to get started sharing.

Share your content across the main social platforms with the press of a button. Post to Facebook (Pages only), Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest and Tumblr.

The great thing about Squarespace here, is that you can not only share blog posts - but all sorts of content, including Gallery Page images or videos,

Events info, Product details and even Album tracks.

This is a handy shortcut, and really saves time when it comes to manually opening your social profiles and pasting your links.

What else does Organic Digital Marketing include?
As you know know, organic digital marketing refers to all your 'non-paid', online marketing actions.

While your blog is a great place to get started - there are lots of other ideas out there too.

Welcome to the big list!

Whilst many options exist out there - the important idea is to always have your target customer uppermost in your mind. What kind of content would they appreciate best? What are the best ways to reach out to them?

Generate traffic, increase your leads and build your business with these simple strategies.

Extend your brand reach organically with:

• Infographics

• E-Books - Both Free and Paid download

• Social Media Content

• Power Point Presentations

• Images

• Blogs

• Podcasts

• Articles on other websites

• Blog comments

• Online Directory Submissions

• Forum Profiles

• Local Business Listings

• Press Releases

• Pdf Sharing

• Quora Posts

• Video Content

• Google Maps

• Reviews & Testimonials

• Link Sharing & Outreach

They are ideas to get you started with organic digital marketing.

Remember Sophocles: "One learns by doing a thing; for though you think you know it, you have no certainty until you try."

Just try. Have a go. Keep it simple and begin.

Take your message - in new ways - to the people who matter most: your customers.

Good luck!

Every small business needs customers - the more customers the better!

And the best customers are happy ones.

Likewise, happy people are a joy to do business with. They return to trade again and again; they tell their friends, who tell their friends and so on. Like the widening ripples from a stone tossed into a pond; your circle of influence increases.

Relationship building is the foundation of every successful organisation - from small start ups to corporate enterprise. Every outreach action you take as a business owner, should aim to foster new and strengthen existing relationships.

To grow your business - you need to build more relationships. Quality relationships. Real people. Real Value. Friendship. Trust. One to one.

Today, we ask the question: ‘Why Is Good Customer Service Is Important For Any Business?’

Before we embark, let’s hear a quote from Marcus Aurelius.

He said: ‘We ought to do good to others as simply as a horse runs, or a bee makes honey, or a vine bears grapes season after season without thinking of the grapes it has borne.’

Marcus Aurelius was one of the last ‘good’ emperors of Ancient Rome. He lived from 121 AD to 180 AD. He is best remembered today for his philosphical book ‘Meditations’.

To him, the work of philosophers was even more important than the work of emperors. He valued ideas and thinking, where the ideas within can change the world without.

Time for contemplation is time well spent.

So, what can Marcus Aurelius teach us about customer service in the 21st Century?

Let’s consider his quote again for a moment:
‘We ought to do good to others as simply as a horse runs, or a bee makes honey, or a vine bears grapes season after season without thinking of the grapes it has borne.’

Here, Marcus Aurelius recommends that we should ‘do good to others’ - to give freely, to share selflessly and serve honestly - without concern for any future gain.

We should seek to deliver goodness for goodness sake; to think of others, not of self.

We can learn from observing nature.

Nature is always holistic - it reflects the whole.

Marcus Aurelius knew well, that a lovingly tended vine will always yield the most grapes - and from healthy hives is the honey harvested most abundantly.

According to Marcus, doing good is really the natural order of things. Our impulse to do good should be as essential as a horse's love to run - a joyous, exuberance; a vibrant impulse; to give, and love and share our best with others.

To 'do good', engenders 'goodwill'.

And goodwill benefits to all - including those of us aspiring to grow our business. It is the fruit that grows quietly upon the vine - the rich harvest, the seeds from which grow new vines that produce ever greater yields.

Similarly - real customer service benefits us holistically.

The sale itself is not paramount.
It is everything that goes before it.
It is everything that follows.
It is always 'people first.'

It is unwise to start a relationship, where only the desired result uppermost in your mind.

Aim instead, to establish goodwill in the hearts and minds of your audience and sales will follow like the wine from those grapes Marcus Aurelius spoke about.

Now lets return to our original question:
Why is good customer service important for business?

Well the short answer here, is that customer service is good for the customer - and what's good for the customer is good for you.

Now let's break that down into 8 specific reasons as to why good - no, great -customer service will always bring a significant return on investment.

And - let's take a look at what some of those holistic benefits are and simple actions you can start taking today.

8 Reasons Why Good Customer Service is Important for Every Business

Customer service is the start point of what is sometimes called the 'virtuous circle of business' - where customer service, builds customer loyalty and boosts your bottom line. It is a low cost investment that allows you to provide a real point of difference to your competitors.

Quality customer service should be part of your brand message - where all employees, customers and other stakeholders aim to deliver the best. Over time, this will lead to an increase in marketshare.

Let's get started.

1. Firstly - Grow Your Business By Brand Reputation
In many ways the effectiveness of your customer service policies define your brand's reputation. Are your customers happy? Are they satisfied in all their dealings with you? A good example to illustrate this is - negative reviews. That's when things go wrong - and your customer lets you know about it. We've all read them - and like it or not - people take note of what others say.

If you receive a negative review - don't panic. Take it as an opportunity to improve. Write a reply, tackle the issues at hand and try to offer solutions.

Action Tip - Find simple, personal ways to deliver a positive experience to every lead, prospect and customer.

2. Quality Products & Service
Good service creates an aura of assurance regarding the quality and standards of your products and services.

As people, we associate quality with what is good. If we like the people representing a business - we are more likely to trust their offerings.

Goods - are called 'goods' for a reason. Remember, attention to customers adds real value to all you offer.

Action Tip - Communicate customer care values and your target audience will view your products and services as higher quality.

3. Always People First
Remember Marcus - Be good. Do good.

Think 'people first'.
People before profits.
People really matter.

Everyone likes to feel special. Everyone wants to be heard. Customer service is not ultimately about sales - it is about helping people, working one on one.

Build relationships and you build a business.

Action Tip - Put yourself in your customer's shoes. Discover new ways to make your customers feel important across all touch points.

4. Make Connecting Easy
Make it easy for people to connect with you.

Add clear calls to action. Increase the visibility of your phone number, business address and email contact details.

Do this on across all your communications - from business cards and brochures, to online marketing.

Include testimonials and add a list of frequently asked questions to your website. Keep in mind that your customers are busy, so reduce barriers and open all communication channels. Provide consistent and clear ways for people to reach out and learn more about you.

Action Tip - Use your company Facebook page to connect with your audience, including via personal messaging. Almost everyone is active on Facebook these days.

5. Know the Power of Word of Mouth
Everyone in business knows that word of mouth marketing is the most powerful marketing there is.

A good story, a positive experience shared = real results

A happy customer will tell their experiences to friends, family and personal networks. Make sure the stories your customers tell - are good ones.

Action Tip - Include real customer photos and testimonials on your website. Add 'case studies' - where you can provide a detailed review of a real life customer story - and how your business or service made a difference here.
Ask customers to leave reviews online.

6. Watch Your Competition
Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. While your 'competitors' may not be your 'enemies' per se - it is important to monitor what they do, and find innovative ways to improve on what they offer. Again - this gets back to discovering your real point of difference. But that point of difference must genuinely serve the people who matter most - your customers.

Action Tip - Research customer service processes across your industry. Find simple ways to add new values and your customers will thank you for it.

7. Create Loyalty
Quality customers are long term customers.

Building customer loyalty is a key issue for every business. Attending to the needs of your existing customers is more cost effective than acquiring new leads. It makes sense. Make the most of what you already have.

Action Tip - Provide loyalty benefits and special offers to existing clientele.

8. Grow your Business
Back to Marcus Aurelius.

Think of the farmer with the grapevine. All year long he lovingly tends his grapes. He waters, fertilises, removes weeds and more.

The vine 'thanks' him will grapes - a significant yield that provides a measurable, monetary return for his labor.

Customer service is this process of attending, caring and nurturing targeted relationships.

As the grapes grow upon the vine, so your business will grow - delivering value and profit to you and your customers over the long term.

As both a Roman Emperor and more importantly, as a philosopher, Marcus Aurelius understood the value of people - and that by doing good, we not only serve others - we best serve our community, our business and ourselves.

Nice one Marcus!
Good luck with building your business with customer service!

A cross platform mobile app is an increasingly popular development option.

What is it and why would you choose 'cross platform' for your next app project?

But first- a quote from Ancient Rome:

Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body.
Seneca

Seneca was a Roman philosopher, statesman and playwright. He lived in Rome from 4 BC until 65 AD.

In this quote, Seneca puts difficulties in a positive light. They strengthen us. Yes, they test us - but we come out stronger - in mind, body and spirit.

Similarly, 'cross platform' mobile technologies have been developed over recent years to address the difficulties or challenges inherent in the native development process.

As Seneca said, 'Difficulties strengthen the mind.'

I say: 'Problem + Solution = Benefits'

The Problem - Native App Development. Especially when investors want to target audiences across all platforms.

Did you know that a separate codebase has to be crafted line by line for each platform: one codebase for iOS, a second codebase for Android, and sometimes even a third codebase Windows OS? (yikes!)

The Solution - One single codebase for all!
(All for one and one for all)

The Benefits - Big Savings. Simpler. Leaner. More Agile. With less upfront investment and quicker timelines.

Sounds good, hey?

So, in the case of native app development, specific challenges have delivered new solutions with measurable benefits.

Thank you Seneca.

And welcome to the world of cross platform mobile apps.

What is a Cross Platform Application?

Towards a definition:

Cross platform mobile development provides an alternative to bespoke native development.

In essence, a cross platform app is a HTML website for smartphones - that is then custom 'wrapped', to look and feel like a native app. It is built with HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Tools such as PhoneGap, AppCelerator or Xamarin are used here.

The big plus is that you do not need to build a separate, backend codebase for every platform. This is a one size fits all approach. It does, however, require some serious thought on the part of the developer. They will need to write additional code and think holistically to ensure performance standards are met across all devices.

And a few negatives exist here - most especially, that a cross platform app may not be able to access all in-built device technologies.

And, to ensure a great user experience - a tailored UI interface - or custom frontend - is still required for each platform.

What about 'Hybrid Mobile Development'?

You may have heard of the 'hybrid' option.

But what exactly is 'Hybrid Mobile Development'?
Is it the same as 'Cross Platform Mobile Development'?

Although the terms 'hybrid' and 'cross platform' are often used interchangeably - there exists a fundamental difference between the two.

It's simple.

'Cross Platform Development' - is really the over arching term that broadly defines those mobile apps specifically built to target more than one platform.

'Hybrid Mobile Development' - may be viewed as a niche subset here. The 'hybrids' utilise both web and native technologies - think HTML, CSS & JavaScript, plus they take advantage of an invisible wrapper known as the WebView browser.

Additional plugins must be used to access device specific features.

Now let's bring in a new, third player: 'Near Native'.

'Near Native' - takes the cross platform technology a big step beyond 'hybrid'.

'Near Native' Apps are commonly developed in Xamarin or React Native. They are more truly worthy of the term 'cross platform', with the resultant code able to access inbuilt device technologies and hardware - with few performance limitations.

Xamarin or React Native provides a fast and effective solutions for complex mobile applications. Plus, they offer flexible and intuitive UI & IX development features that have a genuinely native look and feel.

'Near Native' closely mimics 'native' performance across all touch points.

The 5 Key Benefits of Cross Platform Mobile Development
1. Faster App Development
A 'cross platform' development process delivers your product to market faster. Quicker deployment timelines optimise monetisation opportunities.

2. A Single Codebase
A single codebase saves on time. Smaller teams with less resources are a key benefit here.

3. Big Savings On Development Costs
Less code + smaller teams = lower cost. Save on project budgets with cross platform development. Minimise your investment.

4. Reach More Audiences
Gain immediate visibility. Reach all audiences with a cross platform app simultaneously released across all platforms.

5. Fully Integrated Cloud & Enterprise Solutions
Frameworks such as PhoneGap and Titanium provide integrated cloud and enterprise solutions with highly tailored plugins - built to enhance cross platform functionality and usability.

What are the Negatives of Cross Platform Development?

Cross platform development is not a 'one size fits all' solution for everyone.

Remember - a 'cross platform mobile app' is not a 'native mobile app'.
'Hybrid' is not 'native'.
'Near native' is not 'native'.

Functional limits may be found across these areas:

• Reduced graphics and 3D effects

• UX Experience not fully optimised

• Cross Compliance Issues

• Integration of Third Party Services

• Flexibility & Update Issues

• Slower Speed and Load Times

At the end of the day - for some apps, fully native will always be the only way to go.

Will Cross Platform Development be best for my project?

The decision on that will depend on your app, your budget and your team.

'Cross platform mobile development' is always project specific.

It won't work for every idea.

I recommend that you approach the development of your app with an open- mind, a pros and cons approach.

We began with Seneca:
"Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body."

By understanding the difficulties within the native development process, you can better decide if your project is a suitable candidate for cross platform
development.

Know your options.

Get the strongest result - one that matches your budget and expectations.

And yes! I think Seneca would definitely take full advantage of today's cross platform technologies!

Today we will talk about web branding, and ask the question 'What is web branding?' - as well as give you some easy to implement ideas on how to use web branding to grow your business.

But first, a quote from Plato.
“Every heart sings a song, incomplete, until another heart whispers back. ”

Plato was an Athenian living in Greece from around 428 to 348 BC. Now, when I think of Plato - I don't usually think poetry and tenderness - but that is indeed a very tender quote.

Let's take a minute to consider that quote in the context of business branding.

“Every heart sings a song, incomplete, until another heart whispers back. ”

In this context, 'Every heart that sings a song' may be viewed as your business and especially your brand. You literally sing songs - you advertise, you spread the word, you outreach - to gain new leads and grow your business.

In this analogy, you are the singer, the story teller. Your brand is the song you sing.

Yet your song is incomplete - until your message is heard.

When leads, prospects and audiences hear your song - magic happens.

A tiny seed is planted and comes to life. Your business begins to grow. That is the 'heart that whispers back'. It belongs to your customers, your loyal audience - with whom your song resonates most deeply.

They have heard your song, 'whispered back' as Plato says, and responded with action.

Sales, leads, engagement, growth - you know it when your arrow hits the mark.

Everyone wants their message heard. We all have a song to sing.

Yet in small business, it can be challenging to stand out from competitors - to be heard above the noise.

We all know that small business is all about getting your message heard.

As small business owners, we are constantly seeking affordable ways to spread the news, particularly via the internet.

Web marketing is a great way to reach out to people online.

And that brings us to web branding.

What is web branding?

In a nutshell, web branding is how your brand works online.

It's the strategies you use to reach out across the internet - to find leads, create opportunities and build relationships with those hearts who resonate with your message and whisper back.

It is the process of building your brand online - and making sure that your website is really working for you.

Are your taking advantage of web branding?

Relax.

Think low cost, diy, simple steps. Begin with your website - and go on from there.

But how? OK. Let's start here.

A Well Branded Website

• Do you have a small business website?

• Does it represent your brand?

• Does it tell your story?

• Does it provide targeted information to engage and educate your audience?

• Does it deliver leads, consistently?

• Has it provided a measurable on investment?

If you answered yes to these questions - you have a 'well branded website'.

Effective web branding starts with your website. It puts your website front and centre, with your brand at the heart of your outreach campaign.

Why web branding?

Web branding is a proven performer. It works consistently to deliver real growth to companies that take the time to get it right.

Keep in mind that building a brand is simply about finding the right ways to connect with the right people.

View your website as your key tool - to build those connections and grow your profits.

Above all, ensure that your website is an authentic representation of you, your business and your brand.

It does not have to be complicated - or expensive. Think grass roots. Keep your customer top of mind.

Remember, that your 'behind the scenes' story is critically important to your business - and that you are your brand.

Know your why.

So - build your website to tell your story. Showcase how you started your business, why you started your business, who you want to help and why you are committed to superior service. (I like the idea of 'servant's heart' here.)

Let every element of your small business - that is, your logo, your website, your design, your product and service offerings - and more - all be informed by your story. It really is all about you - and your commitment to those who matter most - your customers.

The Eight Paths of Web Branding

OK. You've got a great website. What's next?

Let's revisit Plato for a minute.
“Every heart sings a song, incomplete, until another heart whispers back. ”

Where and when you sing your song - is just as important as the song you sing.

Your website is just the beginning.

View your website as a tool, a foundation - and go on from there.

For best results, you must consistently market your website. Aim to do targeted outreach every single day.

Use these simple online strategies to reach greater numbers of potential buyers. We call them 'The Eight Paths of Web Branding'.

While many of these strategies are free, or low cost - they do require an investment of time, which small business owners are typically short on.

Again, make it easy on yourself.

Invest 30 minutes per day and take it from there. You will get feedback - then adjust, refine, and implement. Over time, the results will come.

The Eight Paths of Web Branding include:

1. Branded Online Advertising – Promote your brand, logo and message via banner ads and display advertising. It's a great way to increase visibility.

2. Search Engine Marketing – Use Google Adwords or Bing Ads to ensure your brand os top of page in relevant search results.

3. Search Engine Optimization or SEO – When your website is built - aim to include targeted pages that reflect typical search terms. Consider adding your location. Blogging is a great way to create niche content around 'long tail keywords'. In fact, 70% to 80% of all searches are long tail - meaning, they target more specific subject elements. Blog posts are a great way to take advantage of this, lifting your website traffic and broadening your brand's reach.

4. Social Media Brand Marketing – Take advantage of sites like Facebook and Twitter to connect with your target market and build brand awareness.

5. Email Marketing – Send out regular emails to existing clients and prospects. Ensure the your emails represent your brand and provide calls to action. Consider adding in special offers to encourage response.

6. Referral Marketing – Using online channels to encourage your prospects and customers to refer you to their friends and families. Give value and provide rewards!

7. Affiliate Marketing – Connect with other businesses online to cross promote brands and tap into their networks.

8. Inbound Marketing – Continue to value add to your website over time. Add more blogs, FAQ pages, tutorials, guides, testimonials - and more. Create a hub where you provide useful information while boosting your brand. Record simple 2-3 minute video to offer information and assistance to customers - then upload to website and youtube.

Web Branding is an Investment in Success

Time invested in web branding is time well spent.

Above all, an eye for web branding ensures that you will make the most of your website - and take greater advantage of the incredible advertising opportunities that exist online.

Another great thing about web branding - is that it is measurable. Via your website analytics and other tools, you are able to track, analyse and store all data relating to customer demographics and behaviours. This enables you to understand your customer better - and fine tune your offerings and outreach to met their needs.

As Plato realised over 2000 years ago, the best songs are not the big production numbers. It is the quite song of an authentic voice - where the music becomes ever greater as we attune to the whisper of our listeners, our customers.

It is they for whom we sing.
They whom we serve.

Nice one Plato!