How should we decide on a name for our new organization?
Portfolio Director Meija Jacobs weighs in on how organizations should decide on a name.
Meija's key points for naming an organization:
- A name needs to be telegraphic, memorable, sticky.
- A name needs to be evocative.
- It takes time for names to imbue meaning. Eventual meaning will grow based on where the name appears and how the organization uses the name in different contexts.
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More tips from Meija on naming and name types:
The 3 types of names for organizations:
- Descriptive: Clear and easy to remember, these names define what the brand is. Examples of companies with descriptive names are: Post-it, Ziploc, and Save the Whales.
- Suggestive: Hint at the intent behind the name but doesn't paint a clear picture of exactly what the organization does. Examples of companies with suggestive names are: Energizer, LEAF electric car, and Kiva.
- Fanciful: Takes investment of time and marketing dollars to build understanding of what these companies stand for. Examples of companies with fanciful names are: Apple and Virgin.
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