[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":75},["ShallowReactive",2],{"i-material-symbols:language":3,"i-material-symbols:person":8,"i-mdi:instagram":10,"i-mdi:youtube":12,"i-ri:linkedin-fill":14,"i-ri:twitter-x-line":16,"i-ri:facebook-fill":18,"post-brand-compliance":20,"i-material-symbols:person-outline":69,"i-material-symbols:calendar-month":71,"i-mdi:schedule":73},{"left":4,"top":4,"width":5,"height":5,"rotate":4,"vFlip":6,"hFlip":6,"body":7},0,24,false,"\u003Cpath fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M8.125 21.213q-1.825-.788-3.187-2.15t-2.15-3.188T2 11.988t.788-3.875t2.15-3.175t3.187-2.15T12.013 2t3.875.788t3.175 2.15t2.15 3.175t.787 3.875t-.787 3.887t-2.15 3.188t-3.175 2.15t-3.875.787t-3.888-.787M12 19.95q.65-.9 1.125-1.875T13.9 16h-3.8q.3 1.1.775 2.075T12 19.95m-2.6-.4q-.45-.825-.787-1.713T8.05 16H5.1q.725 1.25 1.813 2.175T9.4 19.55m5.2 0q1.4-.45 2.488-1.375T18.9 16h-2.95q-.225.95-.562 1.838T14.6 19.55M4.25 14h3.4q-.075-.5-.112-.987T7.5 12t.038-1.012T7.65 10h-3.4q-.125.5-.187.988T4 12t.063 1.013t.187.987m5.4 0h4.7q.075-.5.113-.987T14.5 12t-.038-1.012T14.35 10h-4.7q-.075.5-.112.988T9.5 12t.038 1.013t.112.987m6.7 0h3.4q.125-.5.188-.987T20 12t-.062-1.012T19.75 10h-3.4q.075.5.113.988T16.5 12t-.038 1.013t-.112.987m-.4-6h2.95q-.725-1.25-1.812-2.175T14.6 4.45q.45.825.788 1.713T15.95 8M10.1 8h3.8q-.3-1.1-.775-2.075T12 4.05q-.65.9-1.125 1.875T10.1 8m-5 0h2.95q.225-.95.563-1.838T9.4 4.45Q8 4.9 6.912 5.825T5.1 8\"\u002F>",{"left":4,"top":4,"width":5,"height":5,"rotate":4,"vFlip":6,"hFlip":6,"body":9},"\u003Cpath fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M9.175 10.825Q8 9.65 8 8t1.175-2.825T12 4t2.825 1.175T16 8t-1.175 2.825T12 12t-2.825-1.175M4 20v-2.8q0-.85.438-1.562T5.6 14.55q1.55-.775 3.15-1.162T12 13t3.25.388t3.15 1.162q.725.375 1.163 1.088T20 17.2V20z\"\u002F>",{"left":4,"top":4,"width":5,"height":5,"rotate":4,"vFlip":6,"hFlip":6,"body":11},"\u003Cpath fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M7.8 2h8.4C19.4 2 22 4.6 22 7.8v8.4a5.8 5.8 0 0 1-5.8 5.8H7.8C4.6 22 2 19.4 2 16.2V7.8A5.8 5.8 0 0 1 7.8 2m-.2 2A3.6 3.6 0 0 0 4 7.6v8.8C4 18.39 5.61 20 7.6 20h8.8a3.6 3.6 0 0 0 3.6-3.6V7.6C20 5.61 18.39 4 16.4 4zm9.65 1.5a1.25 1.25 0 0 1 1.25 1.25A1.25 1.25 0 0 1 17.25 8A1.25 1.25 0 0 1 16 6.75a1.25 1.25 0 0 1 1.25-1.25M12 7a5 5 0 0 1 5 5a5 5 0 0 1-5 5a5 5 0 0 1-5-5a5 5 0 0 1 5-5m0 2a3 3 0 0 0-3 3a3 3 0 0 0 3 3a3 3 0 0 0 3-3a3 3 0 0 0-3-3\"\u002F>",{"left":4,"top":4,"width":5,"height":5,"rotate":4,"vFlip":6,"hFlip":6,"body":13},"\u003Cpath fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"m10 15l5.19-3L10 9zm11.56-7.83c.13.47.22 1.1.28 1.9c.07.8.1 1.49.1 2.09L22 12c0 2.19-.16 3.8-.44 4.83c-.25.9-.83 1.48-1.73 1.73c-.47.13-1.33.22-2.65.28c-1.3.07-2.49.1-3.59.1L12 19c-4.19 0-6.8-.16-7.83-.44c-.9-.25-1.48-.83-1.73-1.73c-.13-.47-.22-1.1-.28-1.9c-.07-.8-.1-1.49-.1-2.09L2 12c0-2.19.16-3.8.44-4.83c.25-.9.83-1.48 1.73-1.73c.47-.13 1.33-.22 2.65-.28c1.3-.07 2.49-.1 3.59-.1L12 5c4.19 0 6.8.16 7.83.44c.9.25 1.48.83 1.73 1.73\"\u002F>",{"left":4,"top":4,"width":5,"height":5,"rotate":4,"vFlip":6,"hFlip":6,"body":15},"\u003Cpath fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M6.94 5a2 2 0 1 1-4-.002a2 2 0 0 1 4 .002M7 8.48H3V21h4zm6.32 0H9.34V21h3.94v-6.57c0-3.66 4.77-4 4.77 0V21H22v-7.93c0-6.17-7.06-5.94-8.72-2.91z\"\u002F>",{"left":4,"top":4,"width":5,"height":5,"rotate":4,"vFlip":6,"hFlip":6,"body":17},"\u003Cpath fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M10.488 14.651L15.25 21h7l-7.858-10.478L20.93 3h-2.65l-5.117 5.886L8.75 3h-7l7.51 10.015L2.32 21h2.65zM16.25 19L5.75 5h2l10.5 14z\"\u002F>",{"left":4,"top":4,"width":5,"height":5,"rotate":4,"vFlip":6,"hFlip":6,"body":19},"\u003Cpath fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M14 13.5h2.5l1-4H14v-2c0-1.03 0-2 2-2h1.5V2.14c-.326-.043-1.557-.14-2.857-.14C11.928 2 10 3.657 10 6.7v2.8H7v4h3V22h4z\"\u002F>",{"postType":21,"id":22,"author":23,"date":26,"modified":27,"title":28,"slug":29,"seoTitle":30,"seoDescription":31,"excerpt":32,"trimmedExcerpt":33,"content":34,"readingTime":35,"featuredImage":36,"postCategory":42,"relatedPosts":47},"post",25438,{"id":24,"name":25},"author-0301142015","Canto","2020-08-03T08:29:31","2026-05-26T17:29:30","Brand compliance: How to protect and enforce your brand standards","brand-compliance","Keep control: 5 keys to brand compliance in 2020","Brand compliance paves the path to important branding principles, such as consistency and image. Here are five strategies to guide you.","What is brand compliance? Brand compliance is the practice of ensuring all brand outputs — across teams, channels, and campaigns — conform to established guidelines for visual identity, messaging, tone, and values. It prevents misuse, inconsistency, and off-brand errors that erode trust. Effective brand compliance enables organizations to protect brand equity and deliver a unified […]","What is brand compliance? Brand compliance is the practice of ensuring all brand outputs — across teams, channels, and campaigns...","\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"toc-1--what-is-brand-compliance\">What is brand compliance?\u003C\u002Fh2>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Brand compliance is the practice of ensuring all brand outputs — across teams, channels, and campaigns — conform to established guidelines for visual identity, messaging, tone, and values. It prevents misuse, inconsistency, and off-brand errors that erode trust. Effective brand compliance enables organizations to protect brand equity and deliver a unified customer experience at scale.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u003Ca href=\"\u002Fglossary\u002Fbrand-management\u002F\">Brand management\u003C\u002Fa> is the continuous practice of shaping how audiences perceive, experience, and trust your brand, including the management of logos, imagery, colors, voice, messaging, and differentiation.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Compliance is different for each brand. Sometimes, it entails a few simple examinations. Other times it’s a large-scale process.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, global brands have a lot more steps to take to keep their brand values intact all over the world.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are many different ways to be compliant:\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\u003Cli>Maintain visual elements\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Establish consistent messaging\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Uphold values and ideals through all communication\u003C\u002Fli>\u003C\u002Ful>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before we go any further, let’s make sure you understand how we will use consistency throughout this article.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The word ‘consistency’ will come up a lot during a discussion about compliance. It does not refer to \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fblog\u002Fbrand-consistency\u002F\">brand consistency\u003C\u002Fa> directly. I will differentiate the two by using ‘brand consistency’ when referring to it directly.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So, how are they different? They’re actually very similar. Brand compliance is a function of brand consistency. If brand consistency were the finish line, brand compliance would be some of the steps you need to take to cross it.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The benefits of adopting a successful brand compliance strategy are immense, and the consequences from failing to do so can be devastating. Before building up our blueprint toward success, let’s explore the importance of staying compliant (or failing to do so).\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"toc-2--importance-of-brand-compliance-potential-positives-and-negatives\">Importance of brand compliance – potential positives and negatives\u003C\u002Fh2>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just as valuable as understanding the good things that come with being compliant is an understanding of the negatives that come with failing to do so. Here are the most crucial positives and negatives to consider.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Positives\u003C\u002Fh3>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Brand compliance is more than just keeping the same-sized logo on different projects. It offers quite a few groundbreaking benefits that are rewarding and worth fighting for. Here are some to consider.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Improves your brand’s prominence\u003C\u002Fh4>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As we’ve observed with different kinds of \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fblog\u002Fbrand-loyalty\u002F\">brand loyalty\u003C\u002Fa>, one of the main reasons customers stick with a brand is they are dependable and maintain their ideals in every situation.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The potential rewards of loyalty are notable, considering roughly 40 out of 100 people pay higher prices to use brands they’re loyal to.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">60 out of those 100 customers end up telling others about the brand, becoming \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fblog\u002Fbrand-advocate\u002F\">brand advocates\u003C\u002Fa> themselves.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When considering what makes a brand so great, we often think of the ways in which it remains true to its many special aspects, such as values and ideals.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Compliance ensures that the best foot is always put forward. It’s important that all areas hit the right messages for each market they reach.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Brand consistency is something that really improves a brand’s standing with customers, and compliance is a large part of creating and sustaining consistency.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Increases sales\u003C\u002Fh4>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Upon first thought, brand compliance doesn’t seem to be a large factor in terms of sales. It is, after all, a marketing initiative.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider, though, the potential disconnect from a lack of compliance. The marketing team is putting forth one thing the audience sees, then they’re talking with another department that represents the brand. If they’re receiving different tones, something will feel off.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just as bad brand compliance wastes potentially large sums of money from marketing campaigns and projects, good brand compliance allows for these projects and advertisements to lead to a better bottom line.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note that there is a measurable benefit to compliance, as consistent branding increases total revenue by approximately 25%. Furthermore, 75% of customers expect brands to offer similar values from one channel to the next.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Negatives\u003C\u002Fh3>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Failing to uphold compliance can be devastating. Here are some negative aspects that clearly demonstrate this idea.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Erases the efforts and financial investments made by marketers on branding\u003C\u002Fh4>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are not too many things worse than buying something and never using it. Parents of young children find that out quite often when they order a new toy, only to find their child enjoying the packaging box it arrives in instead of the actual product.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"340\" src=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191100\u002Fbrand-compliance-27.jpg\" alt=\"A young child playing inside a box.\" class=\"wp-image-47321\" srcset=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191100\u002Fbrand-compliance-27.jpg 600w, \u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191100\u002Fbrand-compliance-27-450x255.jpg 450w\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, even worse than NOT using something is when you buy something and someone ruins it (kids do this to their new toys as well).\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Without a legitimate, structured compliance, there is a huge risk for error or misuse. These are quite costly, potentially ruining years of work and plenty of investments by marketers who put their efforts into branding campaigns.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you take into account that marketing campaigns on average are about 10-15% of a company’s total budget and growing all the time, this problem is amplified.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The following is a graph of the average marketing budget from 2014-2018 (courtesy \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gartner.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Gartner\u003C\u002Fa>):\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"325\" src=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191102\u002Fbrand-compliance-32.jpg\" alt=\"An average marketing budget graph.\" class=\"wp-image-47305\" srcset=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191102\u002Fbrand-compliance-32.jpg 600w, \u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191102\u002Fbrand-compliance-32-450x244.jpg 450w\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Though it’s not a linear increase, it is still moving up over time.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If ever someone is unsure about moving forward with a comprehensive compliance plan, remind them of these consequences.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Communication errors and misinformation\u003C\u002Fh4>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“\u003Cem>Words are the source of misunderstandings.\u003C\u002Fem>” – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When it comes to communication, the type of contact is important, because it shows what they need and how you can provide it. When people contact brands, 80% of these communications are to ask for help or get more information.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"242\" src=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191102\u002Fbrand-compliance-25-1.jpg\" alt=\"A graph about customer assistance.\" class=\"wp-image-47308\" srcset=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191102\u002Fbrand-compliance-25-1.jpg 600w, \u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191102\u002Fbrand-compliance-25-1-450x182.jpg 450w\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you’ve ever played a game of ‘Telephone’, you know how hard it is to get a message from one person to another.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You are also aware of how easy it would be to fix the broken message – simply have someone manage the process, acting as a quality control.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Brand compliance is a solution to the inconsistent messages and misinformation a brand sometimes spreads.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"646\" src=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191059\u002Fbrand-compliance-34.jpg\" alt=\"A woman speaking to another.\" class=\"wp-image-47324\" srcset=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191059\u002Fbrand-compliance-34.jpg 800w, \u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191059\u002Fbrand-compliance-34-450x363.jpg 450w, \u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191059\u002Fbrand-compliance-34-768x620.jpg 768w\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All too often organizations have branding issues resulting from different team members and departments sharing documents and other assets.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Similarly, when it comes to customers, conversations help building important relationships right away. In fact, the first three-to-four seconds generally make the biggest difference.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"325\" src=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191101\u002Fbrand-compliance-26.jpg\" alt=\"A clock showing communication success for customers.\" class=\"wp-image-47313\" srcset=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191101\u002Fbrand-compliance-26.jpg 600w, \u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191101\u002Fbrand-compliance-26-450x244.jpg 450w\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From these benefits and negative aspects, it’s clear that compliance is important and cannot be understated. Therefore, it’s necessary to maintain throughout all different endeavors.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the right structure in place this is certainly possible. Here are five methods aimed at helping you stay compliant.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"toc-3--5-ways-to-maintain-brand-compliance\">5 ways to maintain brand compliance\u003C\u002Fh2>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By following these strategies, you’ll have a powerful structure to keep your compliance from faltering at crucial moments.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cs-1\">1. Create a dedicated brand department\u003C\u002Fh3>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the sun is out and people head to the beach, there’s usually a tower where dedicated lifeguards watch the waters for drowning swimmers.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That way, everyone at the beach can focus on enjoying themselves without having to constantly worry about other people’s safety. This is true for upholding consistent branding efforts as well.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"340\" src=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191100\u002Fbrand-compliance-30.jpg\" alt=\"A lifeguard watching a beach.\" class=\"wp-image-47318\" srcset=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191100\u002Fbrand-compliance-30.jpg 600w, \u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191100\u002Fbrand-compliance-30-450x255.jpg 450w\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It’s fair to say that all departments should be well-versed in compliance and should understand the branding standards set for them.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, to add an extra layer of safety to this equation, consider assigning a department to monitor the entire process.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To go about this, clearly define and outline what they will do. It’s important that they’re clear on their tasks and schedule.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Generally, this team should understand compliance standards, then work to manage and maintain them by examining current branding efforts.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There’s no set standard for the size of this team, but it should typically have more working parts if it has more ground to cover (if a company is small, the team ensuring compliance doesn’t have to be massive).\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finally, don’t neglect to add periodic checks to this dedicated department. Without sufficient supervision, there runs the risk of a blind leading the blind situation.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cs-2\">2. Check and re-check your branding in different products and services\u003C\u002Fh3>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chances are, your products and services will change occasionally. When they do, there’s potential for some failed disconnect in branding.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Similarly, these missteps are often marginal and go unnoticed, since a large miscue would be easy to spot and correct.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, it’s important to have a system set up to evaluate the current and upcoming services and products for consistency.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The only way to make this work effectively is by keeping it routine. Schedule periodic evaluations to products so that nothing slips through undetected.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"340\" src=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191101\u002Fbrand-compliance-31.jpg\" alt=\"An alarm clock on a desk with a calendar.\" class=\"wp-image-47316\" srcset=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191101\u002Fbrand-compliance-31.jpg 600w, \u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191101\u002Fbrand-compliance-31-450x255.jpg 450w\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What types of things are being evaluated here? Mainly, how well the product or service upholds and represents the main ideals, values and mission of the brand.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember that most of all, this process will help new products sell better, as they’ll be consistent with all the factors customers like about your brand.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cs-3\">3. Entice employees to get involved with the compliance efforts\u003C\u002Fh3>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">“\u003Cem>To win in the marketplace you must first win in the workplace.\u003C\u002Fem>” – Doug Conant\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you’ve ever watched a sports match that requires participants to wear uniforms, you understand how funny it can be when someone puts their jersey on wrong.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They often become the center of attention and halt the event, while their teammates have a good laugh at their expense while they fix their wardrobe.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even though these incidents are \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fdeadspin.com\u002Ftimberwolves-embarrass-themselves-with-something-other-218845#!\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">funny and lighthearted\u003C\u002Fa>, when a similar mishap happens with brand standards, the results aren’t so cute.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It’s not always a given that all departments are on board with branding efforts. So how do we go about making sure they are?\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ccto-card blue=\"true\" shadow=\"false\">\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note: Are employees talking about compliance? How are they involved in the process? What are some ways to encourage them? Would testing them about brand details be helpful?\u003C\u002Fp>\u003C\u002Fcto-card>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First, make sure the right people are demonstrating and talking about compliance, in some capacity. Next, consider some ways to offer brand testing and education that is exciting and outlines how beneficial the results will be to all involved.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This could be accomplished in many ways, including through \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.qualtrics.com\u002Fexperience-management\u002Fbrand\u002Fperception-surveys\u002F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">periodic quizzes\u003C\u002Fa> about a brand mission, ideals, logos and more.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The more informed everyone is, the less chance someone wears their metaphorical jersey backwards.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cs-4\">4. Use software designed to ease the process\u003C\u002Fh3>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Probably the biggest problem brands face in terms of compliance and consistency throughout each project and campaign is a lack of version control.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Over \u003Cstrong>10,000 files\u003C\u002Fstrong> get lost on company systems, and the important branding documents that are found end up disorganized, over \u003Cstrong>7,000 scrambled files\u003C\u002Fstrong> to be exact.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All too often teams sharing materials interdepartmentally end up confusing one another and causing more harm than good. This is because it’s basically impossible, without an automated system, to make sure all employees use the latest version of a document at all times.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Without compliance software, brands often run into the following issues:\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\u003Cli>Misplaced files and assets\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Unorganized files\u003C\u002Fli>\u003Cli>Version problems\u003C\u002Fli>\u003C\u002Ful>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, this is only part of the equation. Another piece of the puzzle is having a system that stores brand materials in a centralized location to ensure easy access, which in turn promotes compliance.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Brands are implementing \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fdigital-asset-management\u002F\">digital asset management\u003C\u002Fa> (DAM) software to handle both of these potential issues. DAM efficiently manages all branding assets, ensuring each project uses the right elements.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">DAM also centralizes branding materials for quick retrieval and guarantees version control, which are both crucial factors in staying compliant.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cs-5\">5. Examine your guidelines and communication materials\u003C\u002Fh3>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you’ve followed the strategies listed above, there’s a good chance you don’t need to create a new set of branding guidelines. However, that doesn’t mean they have to be set in stone.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The last thing you want is inconsistencies across channels, especially since consistent branding increases revenue by an average of 25%.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"601\" height=\"350\" src=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191101\u002Fbrand-compliance-29.jpg\" alt=\"A compliance and consistency revenue graph.\" class=\"wp-image-47310\" srcset=\"\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191101\u002Fbrand-compliance-29.jpg 601w, \u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191101\u002Fbrand-compliance-29-450x262.jpg 450w\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Evaluate what’s working, then apply that to your assessment of the current guidelines. Make sure they offer the details on the right and wrong ways to handle different materials.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next, consider the communication materials that audiences have access to. Are they drastically different? Similar? Do they comply with brand standards?\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It doesn’t take long to answer these questions. Usually it’s pretty obvious when something is off. As long as you periodically evaluate these processes, staying compliant will be a real possibility.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Ch2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"toc-4--you-re-well-on-your-way\">You’re well on your way\u003C\u002Fh2>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Improving brand compliance is a smaller part of the overall branding process, but it has big implications.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whatever these implications are, follow the necessary steps so they’re a positive for your brand.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lastly, remember all the values and ideals you were excited to build your brand upon. These are what you’re fighting to uphold when aiming for stronger compliance.\u003C\u002Fp>\u003Cp class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learn more about compliance and other branding factors in our comprehensive \u003Ca href=\"\u002Fblog\u002Fbranding-guide\u002F\">branding guide\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>",10,{"url":37,"url_md":38,"alt":39,"height":40,"width":41},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.canto.com\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191103\u002Fbrand-compliance-33.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.canto.com\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2020\u002F02\u002F19191103\u002Fbrand-compliance-33-450x283.jpg","A person holding a compass in their hand.",880,1400,[43],{"id":44,"slug":44,"title":45,"path":46},"branding","Branding","\u002Fpost-category\u002Fbranding\u002F",[48,55,62],{"featuredImage":49,"postId":50,"slug":51,"title":52,"description":53,"path":54},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.canto.com\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2026\u002F09\u002F03184500\u002Fbrand-positioning-450x236.png",76212,"brand-positioning-guide","Brand positioning: The complete guide to strategic market differentiation","Learn brand positioning strategies to stand out, define your value, and differentiate in competitive markets with this complete guide.","\u002Fblog\u002Fbrand-positioning-guide\u002F",{"featuredImage":56,"postId":57,"slug":58,"title":59,"description":60,"path":61},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.canto.com\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2019\u002F09\u002F19193721\u002Fbrand-culture-450x300.jpg",34489,"brand-culture","3 keys to creating a positive brand culture","Brand culture is how a lot of companies succeed. It's therefore important to build and maintain a positive brand culture. Here are three key ways.","\u002Fblog\u002Fbrand-culture\u002F",{"featuredImage":63,"postId":64,"slug":65,"title":66,"description":67,"path":68},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.canto.com\u002Fcdn\u002Fen\u002F2021\u002F01\u002F19190022\u002Fbrand-activation-13-450x263.jpg",52419,"brand-activation","What is brand activation? Principles to ignite your brand","Some brands are metaphorically stuck alone in a dark corner, where no one can see them. Brand activation is a bright light. Let’s make sure your brand is shining.","\u002Fblog\u002Fbrand-activation\u002F",{"left":4,"top":4,"width":5,"height":5,"rotate":4,"vFlip":6,"hFlip":6,"body":70},"\u003Cpath fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M9.175 10.825Q8 9.65 8 8t1.175-2.825T12 4t2.825 1.175T16 8t-1.175 2.825T12 12t-2.825-1.175M4 20v-2.8q0-.85.438-1.562T5.6 14.55q1.55-.775 3.15-1.162T12 13t3.25.388t3.15 1.162q.725.375 1.163 1.088T20 17.2V20zm2-2h12v-.8q0-.275-.137-.5t-.363-.35q-1.35-.675-2.725-1.012T12 15t-2.775.338T6.5 16.35q-.225.125-.363.35T6 17.2zm7.413-8.587Q14 8.825 14 8t-.587-1.412T12 6t-1.412.588T10 8t.588 1.413T12 10t1.413-.587M12 18\"\u002F>",{"left":4,"top":4,"width":5,"height":5,"rotate":4,"vFlip":6,"hFlip":6,"body":72},"\u003Cpath fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M12 14q-.425 0-.712-.288T11 13t.288-.712T12 12t.713.288T13 13t-.288.713T12 14m-4.712-.288Q7 13.426 7 13t.288-.712T8 12t.713.288T9 13t-.288.713T8 14t-.712-.288M16 14q-.425 0-.712-.288T15 13t.288-.712T16 12t.713.288T17 13t-.288.713T16 14m-4 4q-.425 0-.712-.288T11 17t.288-.712T12 16t.713.288T13 17t-.288.713T12 18m-4.712-.288Q7 17.426 7 17t.288-.712T8 16t.713.288T9 17t-.288.713T8 18t-.712-.288M16 18q-.425 0-.712-.288T15 17t.288-.712T16 16t.713.288T17 17t-.288.713T16 18M5 22q-.825 0-1.412-.587T3 20V6q0-.825.588-1.412T5 4h1V2h2v2h8V2h2v2h1q.825 0 1.413.588T21 6v14q0 .825-.587 1.413T19 22zm0-2h14V10H5z\"\u002F>",{"left":4,"top":4,"width":5,"height":5,"rotate":4,"vFlip":6,"hFlip":6,"body":74},"\u003Cpath fill=\"currentColor\" d=\"M12 20a8 8 0 0 0 8-8a8 8 0 0 0-8-8a8 8 0 0 0-8 8a8 8 0 0 0 8 8m0-18a10 10 0 0 1 10 10a10 10 0 0 1-10 10C6.47 22 2 17.5 2 12A10 10 0 0 1 12 2m.5 5v5.25l4.5 2.67l-.75 1.23L11 13V7z\"\u002F>",1789966903540]