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Big Change #3: We're doing our homework (and loving it).

By Scott, Wednesday, 29 October 2008

Homework isn't usually fun. Why, you wonder?

Well, for one thing, there are a million more exciting things you could be doing instead. Another reason we avoid homework is because we don't realize the benefits immediately. Granted, we may get a grade on an assignment, which contributes toward a grade in the class. But the real benefit is realized down the road when, consciously or unconsciously, we apply the principles learned through practice to the situations that matter most in life.

Conversely, when a student doesn't do their homework, they risk failing an assignment or class. The real tragedy, though, is the fact that they miss an opportunity to grow. If your organization isn't doing its homework, it's missing an opportunity to grow.

At Grand & Weller, we've learned to love doing homework. It's actually built right in to our new three-step marketing process: research, strategy, design.

At Grand & Weller, we use a variety of advanced research tools that yield valuable information and insights. From qualitative to quantitative, the subjective to the statistically significant, we start each project by establishing a firm foundation for strategic planning, and ultimately, compelling design.

Have you done your homework when it comes to the marketing of your organization? Do you know your organization's target markets? How do they perceive your brand? What messaging and methods will be most effective in reaching them? Is your customer's experience of your brand cohesive from top to bottom? How could it be better? Does your organization have goals? What strategic steps are you taking to reach and exceed those goals? Are you allocating your marketing budget to ensure the highest return on your investment?

Those are just a few generic starter questions. If we were focusing on a specific organization, Grand & Weller would have pages of questions.

Homework can be daunting. Sometimes we're tempted to jump right into the fun stuff-logos, websites, ad campaigns, etc. (and it's not uncommon for our clients to feel the same way). But experience has proven that it pays to do the homework first. In fact, it makes the rest of the process even more enjoyable and effective.

Need help with your homework? Contact Grand & Weller today.