Black Sheep Branding: How to stand out from the flock

by Dawn AltnamBranding
Most businesses give key information right in their names. Starbucks Coffee. Nationwide Insurance. Dunkin Donuts. Your brand isn’t about the service you provide, it’s about what makes your company the absolute best option. A fill-in-the-blanks website and mass produced logo will let potential customers know what your business does – but that’s about it. In an age where there are hundreds of choices available, your brand must be about what makes you different. Be metaphorical Many of the most successful brands have symbolic logos.…

Is The Cloud Boosting The Startup Economy?

by Dawn AltnamTools and Services
Many startups in the past three years have said that they would not have been successful if it weren’t for cloud computing, which enabled them to create an IT infrastructure to support their operations without taking a bite out of their precious capital. Unlike in the boom years around 2000, startups are conserving capital rather than spending on lavish launch parties, prestigious office space and Aeron chairs. Instead, the new breed of startup focuses on the basics that will make the business successful in the long run.…