Case Studies

ideas² gets the job done right – on time and on budget. Here’s a look at how we have helped our clients.

• A large retail bank in the Midwest needed to increase assets in its proprietary mutual fund family. The project began with focus group research to uncover what the sales channel needed to stimulate fund sales. We learned that salespeople were looking for a “story” to use in recommending the funds, and needed compelling sales brochures to help them explain fund features and benefits. Several new brochures were produced along with a direct mail campaign that renewed sales interest, resulting in renewed investor interest.

• A small, but successful, money management firm desired to double its assets under management, double its average account size and increase its account minimum – all within five years. Realizing that asset management was its greatest talent – not marketing – it needed us to prepare a marketing plan, budget and action plan. The marketing plan identified strategies and initiatives to achieve the firm’s goals. We have created an image brochure, a PowerPoint sales presentation that was duplicated onto CDs for distribution to clients and prospects, and a billboard advertising campaign.

• A multi-billion dollar corporation was forming a new division by consolidating existing product lines into one area. The newly formed division needed to increase awareness of its products and services and generate more internal referrals from its sales channel. Using information gathered from existing research and brainstorming sessions with division managers, we created a brand profile, division logomark and identity. We also implemented a communications program that included monthly product updates, monthly customized “white papers,” and quarterly reports – for both internal and external distribution. Newsletter templates were created to assure a quality, standard look for all communications materials. As the division grew, we also assisted with the new product launches by preparing sales materials.

• Several firms that we work with require publications. Whether it’s a quarterly performance piece, newsletter, a market commentary or a magazine for clients or internal audiences – we help with writing, editing, design and print management.

• A specialized division of a large corporation was seeking to improve the effectiveness of its sales team in new business and client meetings. Sales efforts were largely uncoordinated and lacked continuity in format and content. We started the project by interviewing salespeople to explore their sales process and use of support tools. We also prepared a thorough audit of current presentation materials, analyzing content, format and style. The project result was a newly written and designed sales presentation that presented the corporation’s products and services consistently, while maintaining brand integrity.

• The Investment Management division within a Chicago bank was seeking to create a new “Manager of Managers” investment program for high-net-worth investors. ideas2 was called in to work as an advisor for the new product rollout. A marketing plan was prepared, sales presentations were created and a distinctive look for the 28 manages within the program was established.

• A money manager was starting a hedge fund and the firm needed help creating a brand identity. Being a rather modest firm, it also needed help creating a “story” that built confidence in their ability to manage money. We created a brand profile and corporate identity for the firm and wrote personal resumes that highlighted their money management experience.

• A three-year-old organization wanted to step up its marketing efforts. We developed a strategic marketing plan, created a brand profile and conducted a customer satisfaction survey. Based on our findings, we produced targeted print, radio and outdoor ad campaigns. We also wrote and designed an image brochure to extend the company’s reach, a newsletter to reinforce customer relationships, and a stationery system and product brochures to support the opening of their new branch office.

• A de novo bank needed to establish a strong brand in a marketplace full of competitors. We prepared a strategic marketing plan, crafted a brand profile and customer care statement and identified distinguishing characteristics to introduce the bank to the community. During the bank’s first year of operations we produced its website; sales literature and a letter library; PowerPoint sales presentations; client surveys to support high-touch service; radio and print ad campaigns and media analysis; and trade show banners. The bank is now well-positioned to attain its ambitious goals.