Design - BeSmart

The art of visual storytelling: how to use design to tell your story

In a world that’s chock-a-block with content, it’s not just what you say but how you say it that counts. The art of visual storytelling is the secret weapon to make your brand not just stand out, but pop like a fireworks display in a pitch-black sky. Dive into this useful guide and discover how to use design to tell your story in the most eye-catching way possible.

Unravel the plot

First things first – you need to know your story. Gone are the days of just pushing products. We’re all about creating narratives that make people feel something, that make them want to be besties with your brand. But before you unleash your creativity, take a moment to jot down what gets your brand’s heart racing. What makes it tick? What’s its story? What makes you different from the rest?

Create captivating characters

Now that you’ve got the essence of your brand, it’s time to put a face to it. When it comes to your brand’s characters, whether it’s a lovable mascot, a charismatic spokesperson, or even unique typography, it’s important to capture your brand’s personality. Be true to yourself and your brand, and above all, make it unforgettable!

Set the scene

Your brand’s visual identity is the captivating stage where your story unfolds. Choose colours, shapes, and patterns that truly reflect your brand’s vibe and core values. Consider how these captivating elements can blend harmoniously, creating a sense of movement and depth. Oh, and consistency is key! You don’t want your audience to feel like they stumbled upon a completely different story with unexpected plot twists. Keep it cohesive and ensure your brand’s visual identity remains true throughout.

Make them laugh, make them cry
A good story has emotional ups and downs. So, don’t be afraid to play with emotions in your design. Use contrast and surprise to keep your audience engaged and eager for more. Be bold and take risks, but don’t go overboard. After all, you want your brand to stand out, not stick out like a sore thumb.

The power of the picture

There’s a reason why they say “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Visuals have the power to convey your brand’s story in an instant. So go ahead and unleash your creativity! Embrace striking images, whimsical doodles, or even playful GIFs if they align with your brand’s personality. However, make sure they stay in harmony with your brand’s overall aesthetic and, most importantly, remain faithful to your story’s narrative. Let your visuals be a compelling reinforcement of your brand’s message.

Put it all together

Now that you have all the ingredients at your disposal, it’s time to create your visual storytelling masterpiece. Use hierarchy and composition strategically to guide your audience through the narrative, ensuring that they’re engaged and informed at every step. And don’t forget to conclude with a compelling call to action that leaves a lasting impact. It’s the final touch that will truly make your story shine.

So, there you have it – the art of visual storytelling in six simple steps. Go forth and weave your brand’s tale in a way that’ll leave your audience craving more. And if you need a helping hand, don’t be shy – reach out to a distinguished and top-rated design agency like ours. We’re all about taking risks, being assertive, and helping brands tell their stories in the most irresistible way possible.

brand storytelling

7 hot branding topics of the year

We’re coming to the end of 2023, so we wanted to share the hottest branding topics that are currently setting the industry ablaze.

At Be Smart, we pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of what’s in, what’s out, and maintaining a playful and light-hearted approach to not scare people off. So, get ready to explore the cutting-edge branding strategies that are captivating audiences right now in the ever-evolving landscape of creativity.

Engaging audiences through sensory branding

Sensory branding takes engagement to a whole new level by creating immersive multi-sensory experiences. Can you recall the chirp of Skype’s incoming call, the swoosh of an email being sent from an iPhone, or the percussive theme of Netflix’s start-up? These are all examples of sound branding.

Sound branding can have a powerful psychological effect and can be used to trigger specific emotions or actions. A distinctive and consistent sound can also increase brand recognition, making your brand easily identifiable amidst the noise of the market.

Whether it’s a catchy jingle, an engaging podcast, or an immersive VR experience, sound branding can create an additional touchpoint that engages your audience in a unique and memorable way.

Minimalist branding: the power of simplicity and elegance

Sometimes, less is more. We’re noticing a clear trend in the branding world – minimalist design is proving that simplicity can have a significant impact. Brands are increasingly leaning towards straightforward designs, clean typography, and uncluttered aesthetics.

The idea here is to eliminate unnecessary fluff, allowing a brand to shape an identity that is sleek, refined, and instils a sense of confidence. Subdued colour palettes, generous use of white space, and the principles of minimalist aesthetics combine to create a bold yet understated statement. In a world where simplicity speaks volumes, minimalist branding is truly finding its footing.

Storyliving; the rise of immersive narratives

Step into the realm of “story living”, where storytelling transcends the boundaries of traditional marketing. Instead of simply telling a story, immerse your audience in a narrative that transports them to another world. Through interactive experiences, virtual reality, or augmented reality, you can engage your audience on a deeper level and make them active participants in your brand’s story. Prepare to leave a lasting impression by creating unforgettable adventures that blur the lines between fiction and reality.

Celebrating diversity through inclusive branding
The modern landscape of branding demands inclusivity. It’s all about appreciating the diverse facets of society, dismantling stereotypes, and fostering a universal sense of belonging. It’s crucial to include diversity in your visuals, communicate inclusive messages, and weave this ethos into your brand narrative.

By nurturing an environment that reflects a variety of experiences, your brand can connect with an expanded audience pool. Your commitment to equality and inclusivity won’t just make a significant social impact, it will also allow your brand to make a positive impact and resonate with a wider scope of customers. The message is clear – inclusivity isn’t just beneficial, it’s an absolute necessity in today’s world.

Interactive packaging: engaging consumers with interactive design

Gone are the days when packaging was just a container to carry a product. Now, it’s a unique opportunity to entertain and charm your customers. Interactive packaging brings together design, tech, and a dose of playfulness to craft an unforgettable unboxing journey.

Think of QR codes revealing exclusive digital content or tactile elements that appeal to more than just the eyes. Cutting-edge packaging designs hold the potential to enthrall your audience, making the interaction memorable even after the purchase is made. So, let’s break the mould and make packaging an exciting part of the customer experience!

Sustainable branding: saving the planet, one bold brand at a time

Now’s the time to roll out your green ethos and show the world that sustainability is more than a buzzword for your brand. Sustainable branding is no longer optional; it’s an expression of your mission.

Let’s put the spotlight on your dedication to a more sustainable future, showcasing your eco-friendly practices, and enthusiastically broadcasting your green initiatives.

Brace yourself to appeal to an ever-growing cohort of eco-aware consumers who aren’t just looking for brands that talk a good game, but actually play one. Embrace sustainability, and watch your brand resonate on a whole new level.

If you’re eager to unleash our design prowess and work some branding magic, reach out to us! Let’s collaborate and create something extraordinary together.

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How To Lead The Way and Gain Trust On Social Media

Housing Associations, you’ve got a mixed bag of folk to reach out to, which means your marketing communications, especially social media, need a touch of TLC. Your social media managers will be juggling a whole circus of news, from shiny new builds to the latest buzz from the local community. The question is, how do you shine out from the crowd and really connect with your audience?

Well, we’re here to give you a leg up. Stay tuned for our savvy tips on how to master the social media game and win over your audience’s trust. Let’s dive right in, shall we?

Be different by being authentic

Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the star player in the game of trust, particularly in the digital playground of social media. Let’s wave goodbye to faux smiles and posts that paint an incessantly rosy picture. It’s time to bring some raw honesty into the frame.

Social media is the stage for authenticity and transparency, so don’t tuck away your mistakes in a corner. Be brave enough to admit when things have gone pear-shaped and address your followers’ concerns head-on.

But remember, it’s not just about holding your hands up; it’s also about how you right the wrongs. Discuss how you’ve tackled the problem, and elaborate on the new measures you’ve introduced to prevent a replay. That, my friends, is how you build trust with your followers and keep them coming back for more!

Bromford – Cyber Incident: How would you talk about it?

Choosing the right social media channels

Social media is a brilliant tool to connect with your residents and stakeholders. But remember, not all channels are created equal. So, it’s about creating content that fits like a glove for each audience.

Think TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook for customer and resident engagement, and keep LinkedIn and Twitter in your arsenal for business and corporate communications. There might be some overlap, particularly for companies who’ve got their ears to the ground to understand how residents feel.

However, it’s always a smarter move to create bespoke social content for different platforms than to churn out the same message across all channels. Trust me, your followers will thank you for giving them a tailored experience!

Respond quickly, and honestly

To show your followers you genuinely value their two pennies’ worth, it’s crucial to respond promptly and honestly to their comments and messages. This shows you’re all ears and ready for a chat.

Setting up alerts can be a handy trick to ensure you don’t let any interactions slip through the net. But, let’s not forget the personal touch. Avoid sounding like a robot, and mix up your responses so they don’t all kick off with the same old line. Remember, it’s not just about what you say, but how you say it.

And when it comes to complaints, honesty is always the best policy. Avoid biting off more than you can chew by promising something you can’t deliver. Always aim to take the complaints off the public stage as professionally as you can.

With this approach, you’re all set to build a loyal following and bolster your relationship with your audience. After all, every good conversation starts with good listening.

Use social media to showcase your work

Social media is a great way to share stories and highlight the good work that your organisation is doing. Share photos and videos of your work, and share testimonials from satisfied residents. People will trust reviews over the Housing Association’s word, so get lots of reviews and case studies that external parties can research into themselves.

Consider hiring a social media manager

If you don’t have the time or resources to manage your social media accounts effectively, consider hiring a social media manager to help you. This person can handle day-to-day tasks like responding to comments and posting updates, freeing you up to focus on other important tasks.

Ready to lead the way? Contact us today.

marketing social housing social media

How involved should you as a client get in the design process?

As a branding and design agency, we’re all about injecting a sense of playfulness, exhilaration, and a dash of daring into our work. We’re self-assured in our skills and delight in working with clients who are ready to push the boundaries and take a chance on something new.

While we value our clients’ unique creative visions, it’s not uncommon for us to meet clients with a rather precise concept, leaving little wiggle room for input. We acknowledge that clients possess diverse views on their brand identity, but here’s the thing – design is a collaborative process! We need to work together to create something that meets your goals while maintaining the overall quality of the design. Have faith in us; we’re the professionals, and we’ve got this down to a fine art.

We take the time to listen to our clients’ ideas and provide them with our professional opinion, it’s important for clients to know that their intentions are well-meaning, and our ultimate goal is to help our clients achieve their vision while creating a design that resonates with their audience.

Change is scary

Switching things up can be a bit nerve-wracking, and many clients prefer to play it safe. They think that if their look has always been a certain way, it should stay that way. However, we’re here to tell you that sticking to the tried-and-true isn’t always the best plan. Just take a look at Apple, a brand that’s transformed over time while staying true to its core values. Recognised worldwide, its logo even morphed into a trendy status symbol. We cheer on our clients to be daring and let their creative juices flow when it comes to their brand identity.

Working with the client

When clients bring their ideas to the table, we handpick the finest ones and mix them with our own imaginative flair. Our mission is to craft a design that embodies the client’s desires and the essence of their branding. And, let’s face it, we’re head over heels for clients who want to shake things up, ditch the old look, and embrace something zesty, thrilling, and attention-grabbing. But, here’s the catch, clients sometimes get cold feet and veer towards safer, run-of-the-mill designs because they’re hesitant to push the boat out. Or they have an executive board who are more conservative in their views, despite the client avatar.

This can be disappointing, but what’s more upsetting is when they ask for one thing but mean something different. This usually happens when the client doesn’t have a clear idea of what they want or who their target audience is. We understand that design is just like writing; it needs a clear plan, a purpose, and a lot of expertise. But that is where we come in with the right questioning technique and sometimes moodboards.

Leave it to the experts

We understand that clients have their own creative vision, but sometimes it’s best to leave it to the experts. We have the expertise to identify design elements that only work in a particular design. Believing in the design journey is the secret sauce for success, and trust us, we don’t want you to end up with a lacklustre look.

A dud design can leave a substantial dent on a business. It’s akin to rocking a dodgy haircut; it messes with your mojo and overall aura. Loads of folks tolerate subpar designs and are gobsmacked by the traffic boost when we spruce things up. But, some clients struggle to envision the long-term oomph of the design. That’s why it’s vital to let us unveil the magic that could unfold once you take that daring plunge.

Put your trust in the design adventure and believe in our know-how. We get that you have your own vision, but come on, let us work our magic! Together, we’ll whip up a design that captures your brand’s spirit and gives your business a brilliant boost.

So, if you’re ready to take that leap and create a design that resonates with your audience, get in touch with us. We’re here to help, and we promise it’ll be a fun and exciting ride.

What are the three building blocks of successful marketing?

Marketing – it feels like the buzzword of the decade, doesn’t it? You can’t spend more than three seconds online without seeing someone talking, tweeting or TikTok-ing about it, with promises of sneaky strategies that will transform your business.

If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by it all, allow us to chuck a lifebuoy and bring it back to the bare bones! From our seasoned know-how, successful marketing boils down to three building blocks: Message, Market, and Media. Get these sorted in your marketing strategy, and you’ve got yourself a rock-solid springboard for business growth that you can buff up and blossom over the years.

Message

Let’s start with Message, which let’s face it, is the whole point of marketing. What’s your business trying to communicate? Whatever your message is, it should be clear, concise, and compelling. Think about what sets your brand apart from the competition; does your audience know about it? Pop a spotlight on the one-of-a-kind perks that your product or service brings to the table. What problem can you solve for your customers?

Message: Now, when we think about the message, we’ve got to give a good think about the tone of voice we’re using. Are we going for a bit of a chit-chat vibe or is your crowd a bit more bookish? Would a cheeky tone hit the spot or is the topic a bit on the sombre side? Having a chinwag about the tone of voice will give your message a realness, and it’s more likely to get all ears on deck. It’s also important to dig into the pain of your client, learn what they’re struggling with and how you can help them the most.

Market

Your “market” is the gang who really need to catch wind of your message. They could be business gurus, parents of ankle-biters of a certain age, retired lovebirds, or just folk with a specific snag to sort out. Nailing your target market is absolutely vital; it calls the shots on how you relay your message and which media channels you pull out of the bag. Retired folks probably won’t be hanging out on LinkedIn, but they might be inspired by a well-crafted leaflet popping through their letterbox, for instance.

For this building block, you’ll need to have a look at demographics, psychographics, and behaviour. Sounds all scientific, right? Demographics include factors like age, gender, income, and education level, while psychographics are all about personality traits, values, attitudes, and lifestyle. Behaviour is all about how your target audience gets cosy with your product or service; how often they nab it, why they grab it, and how they put it to work.

So, it’s a total waste to shout your message to folks who’ll never give your product a whirl, so get specific! Doing a bit of market research and rustling up buyer profiles can help you nab some solid gold insights into your ideal customers. Dive deep into their needs, wants, and what gets them going. Sounds like a bit of a palaver, but take it from us, this will make your marketing that much more gripping and engaging.

Media

Lastly, but by no means least, is media. This is the ‘how’ of marketing, the path that your message trots along to reach your market. There’s a head-spinning smorgasbord of media channels out there, including print, broadcast, digital, and social media.

So which media channels should you have a punt at? Maybe just a handful, maybe the whole kit and caboodle. The secret sauce is sussing out which ones your audience is tuned into on the regular. Your work on target audiences should give you a leg up here, as you ought to have a decent idea of how your potential customers roll. If they’re buzzing on social media, zero in on content for their fave platforms and think about splashing out on a few adverts too.

This is where a bit of try-it-and-see comes into play, because when it comes to marketing moolah, there are no dead certs! It’s all too easy to get carried away and blow all your budget in one spot, so take a breath and decide what’s the bee’s knees for your business. Running ads or pay-per-clicks can rack up the pennies, whereas social media channels are free to use but need a hefty dose of time and elbow grease to keep the engagement cranking.

Review and Refine

So, there you have it, the three cheeky building blocks of successful marketing – Message, Market, and Media. Hopefully, this blog has given you a glimpse of how essential they are for a cracking marketing strategy.

Once you’ve brewed a clear and captivating message, pegged your market, and picked the top-notch media channels, you’re off to the races! Now you can whip up a dazzling marketing campaign that will turbocharge your business’s growth and success.

And it doesn’t stop there, oh no! You can use these three crafty building blocks as a way to give your marketing the once-over year on year. Sometimes you’ll need to tweak one, two, or all three of them as your business and audience shape-shifts and grows. And who knows what new-fangled media channels will rock up on the scene in the future!

If you can take a bit of time to review and refine your marketing strategy, you’ll stay one step ahead of the pack and continue to grow and succeed in this madcap world. And if it all gets a bit too much and you’re in need of a bit of backup, get in touch to see how we can help you.

How to successfully onboard a design client

Customer onboarding is like the second date of business relationships – you’ve impressed them on the first date, now it’s time to get a bit more serious! It requires a little persuasive charm, a lot of honest communication, and will be a critical part of sealing the deal with your potential client.

What’s client onboarding?

Client onboarding is the nitty gritty of turning a potential client into a paying one. You want them to sign on the dotted line for what will hopefully be a long-lasting creative collaboration. But first, you’ll need to address their concerns and make sure they fully understand your design services and how you operate.

Think of it like a journey from your first ‘hello’ to the day you start working on their project. Onboarding is your chance to discuss with the new client:

What kind of service you’ll provide
What their role is in the partnership
How you’ll keep in touch with each other
When and how you’ll invoice
And of course, all the juicy details about how it’ll all come together

Why is client onboarding important?

Let’s look at this from two angles.

From the client’s point of view:

It can be nerve-wracking to choose a new supplier, who is, let’s face it, a relative stranger. And clients may not know how partnering with a design agency works. But proper onboarding is like a sneak peek into the magical world of design. Show them the ropes and help them understand what it’s like to work with you, and they’ll feel a lot more confident about their decision.

From the supplier’s point of view:

Onboarding is not just a chance to get to know your clients (although that’s a big part of it). It’s also an opportunity to wrap your heads around the design project and get a feel for their communication style too. At this stage you can also share your ‘plan of attack’ with the client, letting them know what they can expect of you and vice versa.

Filter out ‘bad’ clients

There will be some clients that just And let’s be honest, some that would just be a nightmare to deal with! The onboarding process is a great way to weed out these ‘bad’ clients before either of you makes a commitment. And it’s a two-way street; a chance for both parties to suss each other out and decide if you want to work together.

Show them what you’re made of!

Finally, the onboarding process is a great opportunity to show off your skills and prove that you’re the design gurus they’ve been searching for. By doing this you’re putting their minds at ease, sealing the deal, and getting the relationship off to a great start.

What happens without a good onboarding process?

Without a top-notch onboarding process, you’re likely to either deluge a potential client with info overload or leave them feeling a bit, well…meh. It’s all about serving up just the right amount of detail to reassure them that you’re the bee’s knees, but without launching an all-out info blitz.

Remember the real nitty-gritty of onboarding – it’s about sharing what a potential client needs to know, and importantly, lending an ear to their questions and worries. The end goal is to make the journey of hiring a designer as smooth as a very smooth thing.

A dodgy onboarding process will leave the client with a sour taste, and the chances of them bringing your design agency on board will be slim. But, do it well, and they’ll be convinced there’s no one else they’d rather tango with than you!

If you’re racking up enquiries from potential clients faster than a magpie collects shiny things, but very few are converting into paying clients, then it’s definitely time for a good ol’ rethink.

Client onboarding gives you direction

Kicking off a fresh creative project with a client is always a bit like opening a box of fireworks. Ideas are buzzing around like sparklers, and everyone’s buzzing about the potential. But, without a compass, you’ll soon find yourselves wandering aimlessly in the creative wilderness.

Enter stage left: Bangin’ client onboarding. With a well-mapped plan and timetable for the project, you can delegate roles, share out responsibilities, and set expectations for all those involved. This framework makes the whole shindig a lot smoother, sidestepping any unexpected curveballs or crossed wires.

Once you’ve cracked the art of onboarding clients, it’ll be as breezy as a Sunday afternoon stroll. You’ll be strutting with confidence, comfy as a well-worn pair of trainers in your process, and clients will be well impressed with your orderly and top-notch approach.

Consider a Welcome Pack

How about rolling out the red carpet with a top-notch Welcome Pack? This is your golden chance to set the vibe for your design agency and give clients a crystal-clear picture of what they’re in for when they team up with you.

A Welcome Pack doesn’t just dish out the need-to-knows about your services, but it also helps sift out clients who might not quite fit the bill. Think of it as a trusty satnav, guiding both you and your client down the road to a triumphant project finish line.

Your Welcome Pack won’t be spilling the beans on all the individual details (keep that tucked away for proposals and contracts), but it’ll cover the essentials like:

Your payment policies
Time frames
How you work
What you expect from your clients
How communication typically works

The results of good client onboarding

Strap in for the magic ride that good client onboarding can take you on. You’ll not only watch your potential clients turn into proud, paying customers, but you’ll see them:

Stick around for the long haul
Turn into loyal brand advocates
Snap up more of your products and services

The cherry on top? They’ll become your own little squad of brand cheerleaders, boosting your company’s growth through the timeless power of word-of-mouth. There’s no marketing tool that packs a punch quite like it!

Running a graphic design or web design business all by yourself isn’t easy, so pop us a message and we’ll see what we can do to help.

What the HEX? Why you need to maintain colour consistency in your branding

RGB, CMYK… what the HEX is it all about? A lot of businesses tune out when their designers start talking about colour, but it plays a vital role in keeping your brand looking consistent i.e., professional. If you’re confused by all the different colour models, and why they’re important, then we’re here to help.

In this blog we’re going on a joyous technicolour journey to talk about the difference between RGB, CMYK and HEX colour models, and the whys and hows of maintaining colour consistency in your branding.

RGB, CMYK and HEX colour models

Let’s start at the beginning with the three most common colour models used in digital and print design: RGB, CMYK AND HEX. Here’s a brief overview of each of them:

RGB

RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue, and it’s used for digital design. Different intensities of red, green, and blue combine to create a range of colours. Every colour on a computer screen, tablet and phone is made up of different combinations of RGB values.

CMYK

CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). Yeah, we know it’s weird that it’s not just B for Black! This is the colour model used in print design and combines different levels of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink to create a range of colours.

HEX

HEX is short for hexadecimal, and it’s a six-digit code that represents colours in RGB values. It is commonly used for web design – these are the ones that start with a # (before that had a whole other meaning).

So now we know a bit about the different colour models, let’s talk about why it’s so important to keep a tight rein on the colours in your branding.

Why maintain colour consistency in branding?

Colour consistency is crucial in branding for several reasons:

Brand recognition

Let’s shoot for brand recognition, because, who doesn’t want to be remembered? Consistent colour use is the golden ticket to brand recall. Picture this, Tiffany puts out an ad and their iconic blue box suddenly looks purple… Blimey, that’s a branding nightmare! You need that colour consistency splashed across every platform, be it online or offline – website, social media pages, business cards, flyers, the works.

Professionalism

If you want your business to scream “pros at work” rather than “a motley crew’s first rodeo”, you’ve got to get your colour game spot on! Making sure the colours are consistent across all your branding pulls your look together and sets you apart from any Tom, Dick or Harry playing around on Canva.

Efficiency

Running a business is hectic enough without fretting about whether your website logo is playing colour match-up with your Twitter page logo. Kick-off with best practices when it comes to your branding, and you’ll save yourself loads of time and dodging those double-checking duties down the line.

Now that we’ve established why colour consistency is essential in branding, let’s talk about how we make that happen!

HOW do you maintain colour consistency in your branding?

Maintaining colour consistency can be challenging, especially if you have several designers and marketers working on different projects! Here’s a few tips to help you stay in control:

Use brand guidelines

Think of brand guidelines as your brand’s rulebook, laying down the law on your visual identity. It’s not just about the logo, fonts, and colours – it could also stretch to include how photography should be used, the framework for the style of photography, and even layouts for snazzy presentations or social media posts. Typically, they’re packed up neatly into a PDF, ready to guide your marketing materials down the path of consistency. It’s like a cheat sheet for your employees and collaborators, helping everyone stay on brand and looking sharp.

Use the correct colour models

Here’s the 101 on colour models: RGB is your go-to for digital design, CMYK’s got your back on print, and HEX is your web design superstar. So, say you need to get that logo up on Twitter – make sure you’re armed with the RGB version. That’s because the CMYK one will lose its punch on screen, looking less vibrant than your 3 am cup of coffee. Any logo designer worth their beans will have you kitted out with all the versions you need. Seriously, they’re the salt of the Earth.

Test colours before finalising

Remember that game, “Pin the Tail on the Donkey”? Think of your colours as that tail. You want to test them out before sticking them for good on your marketing materials, both in the digital realm and the physical one. Different print finishes can mess with your colour results. For instance, colours can throw a tantrum on glossy or matt paper, and lamination might put a slight damper on their spirit. Don’t go printing a thousand brochures without asking for a print sample first! And remember, just like snowflakes, no two computer monitors or mobile phones show colour in exactly the same way. Keep that in mind, and you’ll save yourself a whole load of headaches.

Use colour management software

There are some tools that can help you in your fight to keep colour consistent. Consider colour management software your new BFF in the battle for consistency across all your marketing materials. This tech wizardry can help you tune up your monitors and printers, ensuring that your colours play nicely across all mediums. You should also become besties with your printing company; they can be the Gandalf to your Frodo in getting the colour right for every job. If they’re local, even better – you can pop in and give a thumbs up in person.

Well, that was a whistle stop tour of colour wasn’t it! Now that we’ve looked at why colour consistency in your branding is essential, you can ensure that your business looks the business. And with an understanding of the difference between RGB, HEX, and CMYK colour models, you can make sure that your brand is looking on-brand across all platforms.

Get going today and start implementing these tips to maintain colour consistency in your branding. Your customers will appreciate the attention to detail and professionalism, and your brand recognition will improve as a result. Need support? Send us a message and we can help.

branding colour

Unifying Your Brand As A Quality Social Housing Provider

The social housing provider: the unsung hero of society, the champion of affordable housing, and the master of community-building. But with so many providers out there, how on Earth do you make your brand stand out? Even with multiple companies under one umbrella, it’s crucial to create cohesive brand identity that resonates with your audience. Are you ready to unify your brand? Good! We’re going to help you achieve it.

Why should you give a hoot about standing out?

Well, let’s face it: social housing providers are a bit of a fairy godmother of the modern world, transforming lives by providing people with a place they can call home. But with all the competition out there, it’s essential to make your brand as eye-catching as a peacock in a flock of pigeons.

A distinctive and memorable brand is like a magnet for new customers, a comforting hug for existing ones, and a sure-fire way to build an enviable reputation. Plus, it’ll boost trust and loyalty, making it easier for you to smash those goals of yours.

Enter Be Smart, your branding saviours

At Be Smart we’re all about crafting a brand identity that’ll make your social housing provider shine like the brightest star in the sky. will work with you to whip up a brand strategy that’s in tune with your values and aspirations, creating a brand that’ll resonate with both your customers and employees.

The secret sauce: engaging copy

While a stunning design is the cherry on top of a unified brand, engaging copy is the delicious cake beneath it. It’s well-written, easy to digest, and hooks the reader like a literary angler. It should be informative, persuasive, and crystal clear.

When curating copy for your social housing brand, put yourself in your audience’s shoes. What do they want to know? What are their problems? How can you solve them and provide value? By tackling these questions head-on, you’ll create copy that’s as human as it gets and will help you nail your objectives. If you’re struggling for inspiration, talk to the people that use your services! They’ll be the experts as they’re your audience.

Picture perfect: photography and visual branding

Visual branding is like the air guitar of the branding world – it’s all about nailing the right look. And photography is a crucial part of that. By using consistent styles, tones, and filters across all your communication channels, you’ll create a cohesive vibe that’ll have people recognising your brand from a mile away.

Colour us impressed

Don’t forget about colour – it’s like the secret handshake of the branding world. Your organisation might have multiple logos or brands, but that doesn’t mean you can’t streamline your colour palette. Use colour to bridge the gap between brands and create a sense of unity. Stick to the same colours for borders and text for a subtle touch of cohesion without ditching individual branding.

The grand plan

To introduce your fabulous new brand elements, you’ll need a strategy. Internally, get your ducks in a row and decide when everything will fall into place. For external customers and stakeholders, ease them into the changes gently. Be transparent about what you’re doing and why. Show them the value of branding and why it’s worth investing in.

Real-life rebranding

Still sceptical? Feast your eyes on some successful social housing rebrands. Take Abri, for example, born from the union of Yarlington and Radian in 2021. They unveiled new branding, a swanky website, and a sales site that effortlessly united the two organisations.

Then there’s Harbour, created after the merger of Port of Leith Housing Association and its subsidiaries. They completed a rebrand in November 2022 that perfectly encapsulated their combined heritage.

And who could forget Citizen, the rebranded WM Housing Group from 2019? They splashed out a cool £870m on a swish new look that oozed modernity and showcased their commitment to providing top-notch social housing for those in need.

The bottom line: Unify or die (okay, maybe not die, but you get the point)

To build recognition and trust with your clients, stakeholders, and audience, you need to unify your brand as a quality social housing provider. Sure, it might be tough to justify shelling out for a complete rebrand, but there are plenty of ways to work with what you’ve got and create a harmonious look across all your communication channels.

Focus on engaging copy, powerful internal messaging, photography, colour, and a plan for rolling out your brand elements, and you’ll end up with a solid and recognisable brand that embodies your organisation’s values and ambitions.

Ready to rock and roll?
Give us a shout today, and let’s start unifying your like the branding wizards we are!

brand branding social housing

How businesses are adapting brand and design for Gen Z

Today we’re diving into the fascinating world of Gen Z, where businesses are reimagining their branding and design strategies to engage and inspire the most connected and tech-savvy generation yet.

Yes – at Be Smart we know how to create mind-blowing designs that’ll have them clicking “Add to Cart” faster than you can say “avocado toast”.

In this blog, we’ll dive into what makes this tech-savvy, socially conscious, and totally on-trend generation tick, exploring the trends, preferences, and quirks that drive Gen Z’s unique outlook, and discovering how savvy businesses are transforming their visual identities to capture Gen Z’s hearts and minds.

Authenticity is key for Gen Z

You know what Gen Z loves more than a silly meme and Tiktok dances? Raw, unfiltered authenticity. These digital natives can sniff out fake vibes and insincere brands from a mile away. There’s a whole movement around “deinfluencing” where real, everyday voices are valued over brand deals. So, when creating designs for this eclectic generation, ditch the stock photos and generic slogans. They will not buy into two old men in grey suits shaking hands. Instead, embrace original visuals and messaging that speak their language. And hey, throw in a selfie or two—after all, a little vulnerability never hurt anybody, right?

Inclusivity everywhere, but be honest

Gen Z is all about inclusivity—they’re a melting pot of cultures, genders, and backgrounds. So, when designing for these open-minded folks, it’s crucial to feature visuals and messaging that celebrate diversity. Show off different races, genders, and body types, but remember: honesty is the best policy. Don’t pretend to be something you’re not—because they’ll catch on, and they won’t be impressed.

Sustainability (save their planet)

Gen Z is all about being eco-warriors and saving Mother Earth. They’re super invested in the environment and the consequences of their choices. So, if you want to win their eco-loving hearts, make sure your brand walks the talk and champions social and environmental causes. While designing for this green-minded generation, go the extra mile and infuse your products and campaigns with sustainable, earth-friendly touches. But fair warning: honesty is a must, as these keen-eyed crusaders can spot phonies faster than a melting ice cap.

As businesses are increasingly striving to become B Corps (y’know, those gold-star companies that rock at social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability), it’s crucial that your branding reflects those high standards too. In other words, your designs should be as green and clean as your brand’s commitment to our precious planet.

Gen Z buy with their eyes

Got a hankering for eye-popping visuals that’ll make Picasso green with envy? Well, Gen Z sure does! These digital trendsetters devour bold hues, minimalist magic, and aesthetics that scream “Insta-worthy!” So, when whipping up designs for this artsy bunch, keep your finger on the pulse of what’s hot and deliver a visual feast fit for a king (or queen!). But hey, let’s not overcomplicate things—these types crave simplicity, not a tangled mess of confusion.

Make it easy to digest

Are you ready for a little secret about Gen Z? These screen-swiping savants have attention spans shorter than 30 seconds. Blame Tiktok, Youtube, or the internet in general; whoever you blame, it’s worth knowing. Born with a smartphone in hand, they’re constantly zooming through cyberspace, making it a wild ride for any brand trying to keep up with their lightning-fast pace. If your content doesn’t catch their eye, they’re onto the next shiny thing. Show me a Gen Z who says they watch half hour YouTube videos and I’ll bet they’re lying.

Want to be the brand that stops them in their tracks? Whip up bite-sized, uber-engaging content that’ll have them drooling for more. Think snappy videos, captivating image sequences, bold text overlays, and quotes that pack a punch. And don’t skimp on the visuals—go for readable typefaces that work like a charm across all platforms and colours that’ll make them do a double-take. So, let’s get out there and create some scroll-stopping, Gen Z-approved content, shall we?

Do you market to Gen Z? Get in touch today and we’ll help you out.

Happy Birthday to us all at Be Smart! 30 reasons why we love design

Happy 30th Birthday to us!

As we throw confetti, pop champagne, and nibble on birthday cake, we can’t help but get giddy about our passion for design. In our 30 dazzling years as a boutique branding and design agency, we’ve seen first-hand how design shapes our lives, tickles our emotions, and whispers sweet nothings to our purchasing power.

Whether its product design making our everyday lives feel like a walk in the park, graphic design luring us into the captivating world of logos and ads, or architecture setting the scene for our moods, design is our passion.

As your friendly neighbourhood design wizards, we’re all about creating not just pretty pictures, but designs that make hearts race and eyes twinkle. We’re bold, daring, and oh-so-ready to concoct unforgettable branding assets for our clients.

So, sit back, grab a slice of cake, and get ready to read 30 reasons why we love design and why you should too!

1. Creativity is our jam.
Our brains are like creative playgrounds. We live to create and create to live!

2. New friends everywhere!
Who doesn’t love making new pals? Our clients become part of our quirky little family.

3. Problem-solving ninjas.
We’re like design superheroes, swooping in to save the day with mind-blowing solutions.

4. Conquering the world, one design at a time.
Seeing our work out there is like watching our babies grow up and make us proud.

5. Inspiring others with our passion.
We’re all about creating designs that make people want to take action.

6. Designing for the greater good.
We love using our powers for good, helping with charity work and making the world a better place.

7. Lifelong learners.
We’re always levelling up, staying on top of trends, and pushing the envelope.

8. Collaboration is our middle name.
We thrive on teamwork, whether it’s with clients, freelancers, or our own design squad.

9. Riding the wave of change.
We love the ever-changing landscape of the design world, and we’re always ready to adapt and grow.

10. Designing from the heart.
We pour our soul into every project, especially when we’re passionate about the cause.

11. Creative synergy.
We’re like a hive mind of design brilliance, bouncing ideas off each other and making magic happen.

12. Embracing innovation.
We’re at the forefront of cutting-edge design, always exploring new ways to wow our clients.

13. From start to finish.
We love watching our design babies grow from tiny seeds to full-blown masterpieces.

14. Earth lovers.
We’re all about eco-friendly design and helping our clients go green.

15. Never backing down.
We live for the challenge and the chance to flex our design muscles.

16. Brand wow-ness is our speciality.
We help our clients shine like the stars they are.

17. Onboarding like a boss.
Our smooth and seamless onboarding process gets clients excited and ready to rock.

18. Feedback fiends.
We crave client feedback like a fine wine, using it to fuel our creative fire.

19. Referrals are our love language.
There’s no better feeling than being recommended by a happy client.

20. Brand therapy sessions.
We dive deep into our clients’ minds to unlock their full potential.

21. Digging for gold.
We push our clients to go further, break boundaries, and achieve greatness.

22. Work hard, play hard.
Our team get-togethers and lunches are legendary, keeping our creative juices flowing.

23. Typography nerds.
We swoon over stunning typefaces and the endless possibilities they offer.

24. Reinventing the wheel.
We’re all about innovation, always searching for new ways to dazzle and delight.

25. Best office and furry friends.
Our cool converted church and adorable office dogs make every day a blast.

26. The “WOW” factor.
We live for those jaw-dropping moments when our clients are stunned by our work.

27. Colourful science experiments.
We adore playing with colour and diving into the psychology behind it. It’s like mixing potions in a design lab!

28. Giving back with style.
We love using our design skills to help those who might not be able to afford us. Spreading good vibes and making the world a better place, one design at a time.

29. Proud design parents.
Seeing people wear our designs is like watching our children soar. We love seeing our creations come to life on everything from snazzy workwear to fab office decor.

30. Client BFFs.
We don’t just work with clients, we form creative bromances that last a lifetime. It’s all about the laughs, the fun, and the jaw-dropping designs that make life a non-stop party.

So if you’re ready to get your design groove on and create some branding magic, hit us up! The Be Smart team is here to make your dreams come true.