Brand awareness is a crucial metric for launching a branded digital campaign, but it's also one of the most challenging to measure.
What is the number one pastime of a bored digital consumer? It’s scrolling endlessly through their feed looking for something to spike their dopamine — and chances are these are the best times that a consumer is willing to spontaneously spend money.
The world of business is changing. As consumers move towards a more socially conscious frame of mind, it is becoming clear that purpose-driven brands are changing the way the world does business.
In this article, we look at the meaning of core values, why they are important to a business, and how to define a strong set of core values with an exercise to try with your team.
On the intricacies of our Client Discovery Interview and how our team uses the tool to inform our Brand Development framework.
On the process and importance of determining a company’s Core Ideology with definitions and examples.
This article dives into the long-beloved SWOT analysis and how Skyrocket uses the time-tested framework as a tool in our brand development process.
Digital marketing efforts seemingly insufficient? These are some key metrics to monitor and what each can tell you about your messaging, campaigns, UX and customer experience.
On the importance of key messages for brands and how we solve for clarity with our Minimum Viable Brand and Brand Development Framework
In society, we really value having the answer. It's drilled into us from a young age. We’re encouraged to have the right answer because it implies we know what the right thing to do is, and the right things are going to make us more successful or will optimize a particular situation for us. - Maybe it's tied to our survival instincts. The need to have the right answer so that we can actually make a decision and then move on to the next thing. However this need to have an answer, let alone the right answer, really limits creativity in our own potential. We're so focused on getting to this singular place that we lose sight of the fact that there's so much opportunity that exists.
Typically when I speak of branding as a spiritual exercise people respond in one of two ways. The first group rolls their eyes and reacts quite cynically; chalking the statement up to weird industry buzz-speak. The second group responds by perking up, sitting up in their chair and becoming attentive. Those are the leaders I love to speak with. - The stark dichotomy between those that view branding as a spiritual exercise and those that don't illustrate why some organizations have such a difficult time with branding and arriving on a brand that represents them — while others achieve profound impact and loyalty.
Why Should We Care About Company Culture? - Do you know someone with a great personality? Maybe it has something to do with how they present themselves, their interests, social circle, or the millions of other little things that make up someone’s personality. No matter what it is, this person is a great human and you like spending time with them. A company can be thought of as akin to a person, where its personality is its brand. Company culture represents your brand much like how you treat people represents your personality.
How we save hours every week on our content management. We knew there had to be a more efficient way to plan, organize, and share content for our clients and ourselves. As a group of fearless explorers, we are constantly searching the land and sea for the best tools to enhance our performance and improve our client's lives. Wouldn't you know, we found it in the ocean.
We take brand turf very seriously — your ideas, no matter how crazy, deserve protection. - The story of "The People's Party of Canada" is the branding faux pas we can all learn from. And, sometimes—like the other "People's Party of Canada"—you can do everything right and still have to fight for your right... to party.
Not sure which direction to take when it comes to CMS selection? Selecting the right CMS will mean your company can control your content, make updates, and add or remove pages for years. Choose the wrong one and you could find yourself literally paying the price with every update. - We have been testing and reiterating our CMS selection process for years. Our lead front-end developer, Ethan, has shared his insights as to why we favour one CMS over the other and what it can mean for the future of your website.
Why You Need to Write Original Content and Tips for Creating It. Since the dawn of .COM content has been the Holy Grail of engagement, conversions, and generally winning the internet. - Original content can help you reign over the labyrinth of finding your audience and getting them to engage with your brand. Educate and inspire them and your followers will be loyal to your domain.
Does your brand go beyond just your visuals? Find out why the best brands are emotion-based, not materials based. - If you think building a brand is just about colours and fonts, you're doing it wrong. So we’re sharing the right way to approach branding.
Your brand was probably awesome at one point, or at least it was pretty good. Does it still hold up though? If you haven't evaluated your brand in a while, it might be time for a refresh. Here’s a guide to help you decide.
A step by step guide on how to create an impactful logo. Ever wondered what goes into creating a professional logo that supports your brand goals? - This article will show you the thought process of how an expert creates a logo that supports a successful brand.
A simple idea that gives grand results. How venture design isn’t about design at all. It’s about accelerating your business and anyone can do it. Venture Design is a term commonly heard and often misunderstood. How are companies actually using this to their advantage and reaping the benefits?
Tips and tricks to navigating social media upsets. - When cosmetic companies gets caught up in a social media storm, there's only one way to make it out in one piece.
Give corporate holiday gifts like a badass this holiday season. - Corporate holiday gifts can be a tough call. Check out this list of ideas to really wow your clients, coworkers, or anyone else you want to show you care.
Is blockchain inevitable or the “flying car” of our era? Fundamental to blockchain is the idea that you don’t trust any individual member of the system. A network of actors on the system work transparently and provide “proof” for every action they take—no trust required. - Currency, finances, economy—these are the most fundamental building blocks of our society and also the ones requiring the most faith and trust. So, it’s no surprise that the most viral and hysteria-inducing application of blockchain is for the creation of alternate currencies.
Marketing cannabis is a bit more complex than pretty pot leaves. - Whether a licensed producer, storefront or an investor, it's important to understand best practices in cannabis advertising.
Successful rebranding starts with a promise. - What is a brand refresh and why is it important? Here is a marketing manager's guide on what to consider and whether it is time for a brand revival.
Facebook marketing isn't just data breaches and cat pictures. - In a world where Facebook represents our digital selves, the power of social marketing is unrivalled for brands.
A defining comparison of the two biggest cloud hosting platforms around in 2018. - Selecting a hosting platform can be hard, so we did the hard work and research for you. Here's how AWS and Google Cloud stack up together.
Here's an infographic on Facebook, its challenges and less flattering statistics.
An idiot's guide to crowdfunding in Canada. - Not all companies are destined for the elusive IPO - crowdfunding can be one of the best fundraising methods for the modern startup.
A deeper look into new Google sites and the power within. - You've heard of Google Maps and Google Docs, but have you been given thousands of dollars from Google Grants?
Mobile app design is the window into our souls. No, really. - We know we are connected. But do you realize the extent? And more importantly, how do you play into your users’ day?
Building a campaign-winning website starts with the right tools. - Elections are highly competitive and every campaign touchpoint matters, so NationBuilder can work wonders - but it's not just for elections. See how NationBuilder can be your next hidden gem for marketing your website.
Are you human? Then you should care about responsive web design. - So, the site you built in 2001 – it’s there – it does its job. If I squint at it on my phone, it works okay. Yes, it works ‘okay’ but imagine…
Discover an agile methodology that actually works. - We’ve become true converts of agile. Here’s the Skyrocket Scrum process in action.
The anatomy of our Vancouver startup marketing agency. - Developing the brand for the inaugural Startup Week Vancouver event was an interesting challenge presented to us by Boris Mann. Startups (and the plethora of events that appeal to them) are in an interesting space with its own distinct culture…
Comparing types of branding strategies is like comparing apples to magic 8 balls. - From an incredible list of startups, the Brand Prize team reviewed and debated until five companies came out on top.
When social impact is powered by brand . - The wait is over, the winner is selected. Take a look at the startup we’d be helping this year.
How one company won the hearts and minds of a brand strategy firm. - The time has come. We’re ready to announce the chosen startup of 2017’s Brand Prize!
We get how tough it can be for startups to pull together all the pieces they need to promote their business and idea in the world. Here's the powerful way we approach branding for startups.
A complete look at marijuana advertising before the storm. Building a brand in a new, evolving market is an exciting challenge for a company, especially when based on a once-illegal industry.
The winning brand redesign goes to... - Brand Prize is back for 2017! And it’s bigger and better than ever before.
A highly successful ICO began with brand strategy. - A full guide to designing and launching the perfect landing page for ICO and blockchain products.
How refreshed brand positioning saved Harley Davidson. - The value of brand (i.e. brand equity) is one of the most valuable assets a company has. So, what happens when a company deviates from its established branding?
Building a website in NationBuilder was the beginning of something beautiful. - We reveal how our courtship with Nationbuilder unfolded with Jazz of all things.
A compelling value proposition is the foundation you need for a solid brand. - We always get asked how to brand a company. That's why we built a process over 6 years that answers the most common marketing question.
Financing your startup can be daunting, but Canada has you covered. - A unique business fundraising method that many startups don't consider - Equity Crowdfunding. Here's how it works in Canada.
When creative agency services are wrapped in small, malleable chunks of gold. - Lean methods maximize value and minimize costs — that’s why professionals, like ourselves, from areas as diverse as software to marketing are increasingly turning to lean to get the job done right, without the extra padding.
Your startup's first breath should be full of design thinking. - Startups tend to consider design last. In turn, we explore the impact early-stage human-centred design thinking can have on your endeavour.
A hitchhiker's guide to reaching for the galaxy. - Marketing and brand managers everywhere understand the struggle. You need talent. You have the budget. Should you hire in-house or bring on a creative agency?
Part two of the design thinking process for startups. - Design. Yeah. But really, what practical influence can design have on your business?
Game-changing stories from The Broadbent Institute Progress Summit. - Let’s talk big picture. How are we evolving today to thrive tomorrow?
Company culture isn't about ping pong tables and beer. - You know how these days everyone is raving about ‘Slack changing their work lives’? Well, count us in because Slack did change the way we work and our culture as we knew it.
How startups could use a creative branding agency to scale like crazy. - Skyrocket’s annual Brand Prize contest is in full swing. With the winner announcement in sight, we narrowed the applicant list down to five candidates.
A brand building strategy worth celebrating. - We’ve picked out five startups who we believe are going to do damn good things for our world. Drumroll please…
An open letter to the City of Vancouver logo redesign project. - Our UX Designer Marie Lamouret has signed, among hundreds of Vancouver design community members, an open letter that expresses her position on the new City of Vancouver logo. CBC reached out to Marie for an interview, a transcript of which we are publishing here.
A shortcut for branding companies thanks to Brand Prize. - The votes are in and the champagne has been popped. We’re thrilled to announce the winner of our first Brand Prize …
In a digital-focused world, product and brand design are pivotal in driving a business forward. - "If the design partner is to help startups realize the full potential value of design, return on investment is the ultimate barometer of success in venture
The difference between user experience and usability experience can be 10x scaled. - Despite the obvious flaws in UX, Snapchat has risen to stardom in record time. How come? Our UX designer Marie chips in.
International industry trends as summarized by a Vancouver web design company. - Trends come and go, and we know it can be tough to keep up… but fear not! Let’s dive into a few that are currently on everyone’s radar.
Here's an infographic on how the digital landscape has changed for commerce.
Ultimate comparison of the best online payment systems for your website. - The best payment systems for your website are compared in this showdown between Lightspeed, Shopify and Square. We compare speed, price, practicality, user experience, and fit for your business
Imitation is the finest form of flattery, and creative design is no exception. - Perfection: the action or process of improving something until it is faultless (Oxford Dictionary Definition). With delicate, flowing music and the use of short, punchy adjectives here’s a video that takes us through a powerful journey of feeling.
This adaptive web design is at the heart of beautiful mobile websites. - Skyrocket designs websites with the modern user in mind, which means mobile first. Learn how mobile specific templates can take your user experience to the palms of thousands.
In the absense of 'mobile friendly' we have something better - a website. - Mobile-optimized websites aren’t the platform of the future. In fact, we should probably stop talking about “mobile” and “desktop” sites altogether, and call it what it is: a website…
We're already digital natives, so why the prefix? - We live in a multi-device, multi-screen, multi-context digital world, so the experiences we deliver have to represent a seamless connection between the real world and the virtual one.
Why so many of our clients look for a startup branding agency. - Getting your brand right the first time is essential for startup success. That’s why we’re holding The Brand Prize contest for startups in North America: the winner will work with us and receive a Visual Identity and Branding System (worth $40,000) absolutely pro-bono.
At the intersection of desktop and mobile is the ever-curious tablet. - How web design for tablets can fill the gap that is inhabited by thousands of users.
Here's an infographic on why you should have a mobile-friendly website.
We helped Sexy Hair move to a blazing fast deployment of Magento AND cut their costs by 90%. - We worked with Sexy Hair to tame their beast of a Magento deployment. We evolved everything—mobile user experience, content management strategy for dozens of internationally localized websites—to bring a massive deployment all into a bulletproof, easy to manage and nimble CMS to serve their world.
The team was asked to rate Sanpellegrino’s rebrand from 1 to 5. It seemed like a simple question. We realized it’s not.
Apple recently announced that it will be discontinuing the last version of the iPod. In the wake of that news, many articles have praised Steve Jobs for revolutionizing how we consume music. We, however, would like to recognize the earlier pioneers who forced the industry to adapt; the pirates.
We recently had the opportunity to collaborate with the students of Kriti Dewan's Introduction to Digital Marketing class at Kwantlen Polytechnic University.
A universal problem that many are experiencing - especially during and after COVID - is the constant stress, burnout, and the feeling of overwhelm. Groundwork helps answer the question working professionals often think of: How do I go through my daily to-do list while getting my personal needs met without feeling overwhelmed?
The concept of the "centaur" refers to combining human intelligence and technology to create a more powerful entity. This is achieved using technological trends such as Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to make better business decisions and improve efficiency. These technologies can analyze vast amounts of data and automate processes, allowing businesses to stay relevant in the modern world and make the most out of their operations.
Infographic on inforgraphics
Marketing is not just about tracking numbers and optimizing campaigns, it's also about understanding human emotions and creating meaningful connections with your audience.
We highlight the most strategic questions to answer when launching a new website build, so you can feel confident in the planning and execution of this process.
Marketers worldwide are awaiting a major change happening on July 1, 2023; the migration from Universal Analytics (UA) to Google Analytics 4 (GA4). That’s when Universal Analytics will stop collecting data.