Design we love

It's time for some gratuitous eye candy here at Unit. Without further ado, stuff we adore by talented people.

Graphics & Illustration




















Branding & Logos












Typography













Photography




All work copyright its respective designer(s)/artist(s). No copyright infringement intended. Unit does not own nor produced any of the work shown here in this post.

Research: Why is branding necessary?

Jess here. As it turns out, branding originally meant burning: [in verb sense] To mark permanently with a hot iron; [in noun sense] To mark of ownership made by marking.

Today branding is the apple that didn't fall far from the tree. Today the dictionary lists branding as the promotion of a particular product or company by means of advertising and distinctive design. What it doesn't mention, is branding is the basis of a identity and recognition of not just a product, company, or business, but of an idea, promise, entity persona, or image. This additional part gives what is being promoted (sell-ability) within a competitive market in which consumers have a choice amongst various products or service providers that fill the same need. Your product or service's sell-ability is vital to survive when what you offer is supplied by various sources (competitors).

In this way branding can lead to a well known brand presence, the successful growth of a company and give it a sustainable relevance in a fast-moving marketplace.

Let's look at the company Coca-Cola:

Coca-Cola (Coke) has been around several decades and that is putting it lightly.

They began with a strong mark and kept with the same message in all their advertising.

Coke = happy

While quality of product serves a part in the consumers response to advertising, the brand itself became a unique mark and identifier.

Coke has kept the overall look and message the same, even with various slogans and statements like"always Coca-Cola" or "have a Coke."

The branding of this product is one that carries the idea of consumer happiness and enjoyment in every advertisement slogan and jingle. This 360 degree branding marvel, still stands as strong as ever and is a shining example of what good branding can do for not only one product but the company itself.

One last example of Coke's presence today. It is not just a product or one drink, it is everywhere. For those of you familiar with Charles and Ray Eames, Vitra was the company that had rights to replicate and distribute their furniture designs. Coca Cola Has its own line of furniture from their themed selection which was available through Vitra. These pieces have been featured over the decades in Coke's ads and the buildings of various retailers, restaurants and distributors now sold directly for the consumer or Coke enthusiast.

Research: What goes into a branding book? Part II

Jess here again. Another important thing to include is the typeface and its variations so there is consistency within all additional text on any branded materials. Products such as business cards letterheads and envelopes should have guidelines as well. (See some good examples below.)