The Core Elements of a successful non-profit organization 3:39 PM

Yes, another posting hiatus. But, there's good reason! UD+M has been hard at work developing a new branch of the company called STREETLIGHT. 

After an influx of pro bono requests from non-profits, it became clear that there was a need for affordable design services for an industry that has long relied on low-quality donated services or even doing the design themselves. Ultimately, what we've ended up with is a long list of worthy causes that, from a marketing perspective, look awful.

So, STREETLIGHT was born.

STREETLIGHT strives to offer affordable, high-quality branding materials to non-profit organizations through a couple different options depending on the budget of the organization. It's all spelled out on the site, so there's no need to go into too much depth on those.

The main reason UD+M decided to pursue this industry is because the world that these organizations impact is our world as well. And there's potential to aid in this impact through quality branding materials.

You may be wondering why the emphasis on quality branding for a non-profit organization. Does it really make that big of a difference? In my opinion, a wholehearted yes. 

I think that there are 3 main facets that determine the success of a non-profit organization, all of which are directly tied to its branding:

Accessibility 

Your goal must appear reachable. In order to get people passionate about a cause, they have to feel as though their contribution (whether that be service-oriented or financial) can make an impact.

Parallel Connectivity

There has to be a common ground between those serving and those in need. For (hypothetical) example, the cost of 1 latte a week is the same as the mosquito netting that will save a family from the threat of malaria. The value has now been put into terms that every iPhone-toting college kid in the US. Which adds to the overall potential impact as well. Presenting this way may initiate a stronger large-donor base as well.

Organizations like Mocha Club and OneDaysWages have become very successful using parallel connectivity.

Strong Visual Message

Like it or not, my generation (25-35) and the one following us (19-24) make a lot of assumptions based on the overall look of a product or service. This goes for causes, too. Look at Blood:Water Mission, charitywater, and TOMS. Incredible design aesthetic and incredibly successful in penetrating the markets mentioned above. They're taken seriously because they look serious. 

Even in a struggling economy Target and Apple continue to advertise. There's no compromise when it comes to quality either. It should be the same for non-profit organizations.

You need to figure out what is your 'thing'. What's your voice? What sets you apart from all the other causes? Why should people give to you? Ultimately, it's not about you competing with other causes, but you're passionate about something in particular and want to make an impact.

Breaking the silence 11:11 AM

Another lapse in posts have taken over the UD+M blog. But, at least there's something to show for it. 

Laziness is not the cause, but busyness. UD+M has been hard at work with new projects and new clients, and a little work for ourselves as well.

First off, our recent work for ReadyHang.com has garnered an incredible amount of attention in the design world. After launching the new site, ReadyHang was featured on numerous online design galleries including (but not limited to!) thebestdesigns.com, cssdrive.com, cssbuilt.com, and designfridge.co.uk from across the pond. We've even been approached about including the design in an upcoming book on quality web design! It's been a bit of a mindblower, but it is definitely exciting to see our work recognized by the masses.

If you haven't had a chance to see the site yet, check it out, as well as UD+M's other work with ReadyHang on our site.

Which segue-ways me nicely into my next bit of news. After our recent redesign, we also picked up a few mentions on some of the sites listed above. Yes, the site was just redesigned this past spring, but it was clear that UD+M needed something more streamlined and interesting. This one should stay around for a while.

UD+M has also been working hard to develop two additional brands: 

UBERCLOTHING.com–A premium online shopping experience that offers the best online collection of clothing selected from the highest quality fashion designers. For more information, visit uberclothing.com.

SOAPBOX–A branding studio offering a voice to non-profit organizations and ministries through affordable and quality branding materials. (Site currently in development)

Both are currently in the development phase with hopes of beginning beta testing on uberclothing.com this fall, and launching SOAPBOX within the next few weeks.

UD+M is incredibly excited about the potential of both of these new brands and the continued growth of UD+M. If you are looking for branding + marketing solutions for your business, visit the site or send us an e-mail at hello@uberdm.com.

Amazing Demo Reel 12:31 PM

Check out this incredible demo reel from Polish animator, Robert Kaniszewski. Animation is such a separate realm in design. You're dealing with 3 dimensions in a 2-dimensional medium. wow.

I'll stick to websites and identity work, thanks.

New Business Cards 8:37 AM

Does your business wear a bow tie? Branding to remember 4:32 PM

I had a conversation with a friend the other night. We were trying to figure out which salesman had helped him at the wine store. You see, it was Raechel's birthday. We had an amazing evening of tasting wines, cheeses, desserts, and most importantly, great conversation (This is a whole different post, but I've found that most of the indulgences of life are not about the indulgences at all, but about the people with whom you enjoy them and the conversation that it instigates.). Clearly I have digressed, except I haven't really gotten on the topic yet at all...

..as I was saying, my friend and I were trying to place a name with a face of the great salesman who recommended the wine (another rabbit trail, but I just have to sing the praises of our wine store of choice. Amazing service, they remember your name and what you like/dislike. For those in the Franklin area, go here.) for the evening. Each of us attempted to describe him. Was he the young guy? With the short hair and beard? No, he was older. Always wears the t-shirt. Says 'delicious' alot. He's super friendly and knew what he was talking about.

Finally, we were able to figure out who he was talking about. But more importantly, it made me realize that these descriptions we were using we essentially brandings: The quickly-described, prominent features of a person that stuck with us. 

It's the same with your business. Which store was it? The one with the green door. They were incredible in helping me find exactly what I needed. Or I just love the music they play in that shop. It makes me want to go in all the time! Maybe its I can't bring myself to go in to that place. They do great work, but I just feel so uncomfortable.

What's your business brand? What are people saying about you in quick descriptions? Often times, its something other than your service that will stick in someone's mind. But they'll remember you. Make sure that you follow up that brand with quality service.