THEME #4 FROM 7 PART POST SERIES EXPLORING THE EVOLUTION OF BRAND STORIES & THEMES
The arts are one of the few industries that exist today where exclusive control may result in a stronger creation. Think of musicians who have succeeded without a record label, or independent films powered by open social interest. In business, the opposite is happening. Greater innovations are being created through shared IP and collaborative strategic partnerships. This open approach to business development is counter to traditional beliefs that IP if closed/proprietary, or so unique that it is incompatible with competition – would be of greater value to the market. The business culture and leadership vision, whether closed or open, is evident in a brand. Brands born out of a culture that is closed and control-minded, usually show limited interest in engaging with people and pursuing new collaborative partnerships. In contrast, brands born out of an open, social, and collaborative business culture, are usually the brands that are most enduring, share-worthy, and human.