How do you define success for a place-branding project?

Did you know that the success rate of a place-branding project is less than 15%? Turns out that most of the place-branding initiatives are prematurely ended within a year of introduction. You might think that such a high failure rate is outrageous. Unfortunately, as someone who has been involved in a couple of place branding projects, I …

Branding Czech Republic Part 2

Previously, we analyzed the Czech Republic's new promotional logo, which did not receive a warm welcome. Unfortunately, the campaign failed to convey unique and compelling messages to the three major audiences of any place branding campaigns: Visitors, potential investors, and the locals. We think this campaign did the expected: Promoted "the stereotypical Czech Republic." However, successful branding requires us …

What does LeBron James’ first ring signify? Part 2

Previously, I shared some of my thoughts on LeBron James, mythology and archetypal psychology. Let's continue from where we left off. This is the second instalment of a three-article series. About James’ recovering popularity I genuinely believe that LeBron James is the greatest basketball player of his generation. That has been obvious the last couple …

Know Canada?

Below, is the comment I left on an article on Brand New. My thoughts on Canada's new campaign generated some interest, so I decided to share them with you. Enjoy it! "I like the simplicity of the design, as well as applications and the selection of images. As usual, BMD has done an excellent "design" …

Brand architecture 201: Mervin Manufacturing

Previously, we talked about different structures of brand architecture. Let’s continue from where we left off and look at brand hierarchy and roles by studying one of my favourite brands: Mervin Manufacturing. Mervin is a designer and manufacturer of snowboarding and skateboarding products. What I love the most about Mervin is its culture, which is …