Parliament

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m an executive at a watch company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenges were you trying to address with Parliament?

We wanted to reevaluate our brand, including its story and strategy.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Parliament helped us create a brand strategy for our company. They were already finishing the discovery phase of the process when I took my current position, so Parliament led an hour-and-a-half-long meeting with me to talk about our company and why I joined it. This helped us review brand-positioning statements and evaluate what path we wanted to take with this partnership.

Regarding the process, they interviewed our stakeholders and the ownership of our company. Additionally, they reviewed all our existing brand work and the voice of consumer information we had, including surveys and reports.

The ultimate deliverable of their work was a fully articulated brand strategy that included our mission, vision, values, and brand guidelines. In addition, it had consumer and company archetypes and a series of detailed guides that could help us identify the tone, look, and feel of our overall communication as a business. Parliament gave us the foundation upon which everything we did was built.

What was the team composition? 

We worked with around four members of their team, including Chris (Founding Partner), Aaron (Producer), and a creative director.

How did you come to work with Parliament?

They were already working with us when I took my current position. Our team chose Parliament because they seemed promising and the right partner for our company.

How much have you invested in them?

We spent $50,000–$100,000 with them.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from February–June 2022.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

It’s too early to share solid KPIs because we’re just starting to implement and execute their work. Nonetheless, we can say that they led us further than where we thought we could go, thanks to their smart, articulate, and thoughtful work.

How did Parliament perform from a project management standpoint?

Their project management was incredible; they were deeply involved and engaged in helping us accomplish our goals, and it felt like they were a part of our internal team. In addition, communication was excellent, and we used Slack, email, and Zoom to have weekly meetings and review the progress of our project.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their biggest strength was their ability to absorb who we were and who we wanted to be while keeping our company’s DNA. Parliament helped us peel our essence and build our brand upon that, which included how we tried to identify ourselves, our mission, and our niche audience. Overall, our meetings with them were inspiring, engaging, and explorative. Their work was so thorough that we don’t doubt our company’s brand strategy due to their energetical and rigorous involvement.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I didn’t think there was anything they could improve on.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Give honest answers to all of their questions. Parliament’s team was great at putting our ideas together while identifying the importance of our brand's values to deliver DNA-consistent work.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the chief brand officer for MVMT, a watch and lifestyle accessories brand. We started in 2013 in the D2C space, and we were acquired by the Movado Group in 2018. Although we’re now part of a larger publicly traded company, we operate independently from a brand and product development standpoint.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Parliament?

We wanted to refine who we were as a brand and reestablish our positioning and core identity. Growing in the D2C space, we flew heavy on our two founders as the face of the brand. When we got acquired, they were out of the picture, so we wanted to reposition what we stood for then years later.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We initially outlined all of our needs as a brand; many of them were around positioning and storytelling. Overall, the project was purely an exercise in research and development of brand positioning. In the end, Parliament delivered a 120-page booklet that focused on our messaging position, brand values, and audience target.

First, we downloaded all the data we had about the history of our brand; we had a lot of quantitative and qualitative data. Parliament came in and did rigorous interviews with all the major stakeholders within our company. We scheduled at least 15 interviews to talk about the challenges, growth, what was working, and how we evolved over time.

The team didn’t work on design; they created a reference on how our brand should be perceived. They solely focused on positioning to help us take the next step and build the brand identity. Overall, Parliament had a process and structure to set up archetypes behind the brand. Additionally, they did a competitive analysis across the board with all our major competitors.

What is the team composition?

From start to finish, we had about five teammates from Parliament actively involved in the collaboration. Additionally, they invited a team of eight for our ongoing weekly sessions.

How did you come to work with Parliament?

We internally put together a list of agencies we’d been referred to or found through research. We probably went through 15 different agencies to find the right partner for the project. We found Parliament because they did Rivian’s brand guidelines; we were really impressed with how they built a strong brand identity.

We saw their case studies, and they were very personable throughout the process. Everyone was on the call from start to finish while we scoped out the project. Moreover, we liked that they were a boutique agency. Parliament was collaborative, and they clearly showed us the deliverables we’d get. Ultimately, we went with them because they showed us what the process would be like in the vetting period.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent under $100,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked with them from February–May 2022; it was a four-month project.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

It’ll take a while to roll it out, but we’re taking their work as our foundation to redo our whole visual identity and website. The entire team was impressed with Parliament; everyone internally and in our parent company identified with the vision they created. Their perspective was unique and insightful, and it really helped us determine where we wanted to go, so we’re moving forward with all their recommendations to rebrand our business from top to bottom. Overall, the deliverables were successful; they were an amazing piece of design and literature.

How did Parliament perform from a project management standpoint?

The project management was great; they were flexible and quick to respond. Although the project took a little longer than anticipated, it was at no additional cost. They worked with us to come to the right conclusion, and the collaboration and communication were incredible. All in all, they had an amazing process to complete the project.

We mainly communicated through Slack, and they were always responsive. We also had email communication, but most of our sessions were through Zoom. Additionally, Parliament flew out and met us in person to do a working session before they did the diagnostic.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They had a great experience and perspective. Their team was incredibly talented and personable; they pulled out the best of our team. Moreover, what made Parliament so successful was that they could work with large-scale brands and bring big ideas together. Chris (Founding Partner) was an amazing marketer; he was very hands-on and liked keeping the company as a boutique agency.

Second to that, their output, design, and final deliverables were dialed in from a process and template standpoint. If we ever need to make changes, we can do it easily because it was all packaged beautifully in Adobe.

Overall, it was a rare opportunity to work with a senior organization that worked closely with us to bring our vision to life. The team members we talked to were with us every step of the way. All in all, they were extremely collaborative and wouldn’t stop until we were happy with the final output.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, nothing really comes to mind. They did a great job and worked exceptionally well collaboratively.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

To be successful with Parliament’s team, you need to give in just as much as they’re giving and spend time to iron things out. In fact, most of our success came from actually challenging them. Thanks to that, we were both able to learn and grow, and it was a very active process.

Parliament can give you the best tools to be successful, but you’ll need to participate to get the best possible outcome. If you match their energy, they’ll deliver that solid, innovative vision. All in all, they’re very passionate and committed, so collaborate with them, challenge them, and keep pressing to find the right answer. If your team has the bandwidth to contribute, it’ll significantly impact your project.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CEO of eyebobs. We’re a retailer of eyewear frames, and we mainly sell our products through our website and to other retailers.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Parliament?

We were trying to better articulate and promote our brand, so we hired them to help us redefine our brand and communication framework.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Parliament provides us with branding services. They’ve helped redefine our company’s core values, mission, and vision and come up with a new brand strategy. Additionally, they’ve validated our brand assets, making sure the logo, fonts, color schemes, photography, and other elements align with our branding. Their team has also worked on our presentation templates.

We’ve kept Parliament on as a contractor for a creative director. Chris (Founding Partner) currently acts as our creative director to make sure that we implement the brand strategy and communication framework effectively. We meet with him once a year.

What is the team composition?

Apart from Chris, we work with a copywriter and project manager from their side.

How did you come to work with Parliament?

I found them through a LinkedIn post that a friend of mine shared. 

How much have you invested with them?

We started working with them in September 2020, and our partnership is still ongoing.

What is the status of this engagement?

We’ve invested about $100,000.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

Our customer satisfaction score and engagement have gone up, which means more customers are interacting with our brand. We’ve also noticed an increase in sales. Overall, the customer reaction has been very positive.

How did Parliament perform from a project management standpoint?

We communicate with them via Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Slack.

What did you find most impressive about them?

We’re impressed with their commitment and how they’ve managed the entire process. They really work hard to understand our company, people, and customers fully.

Are there any areas they could improve on?

I can’t think of anything. I’ve worked with a lot of agencies in my career, and Parliament has checked every box — there’s not a single that they didn’t do well. That just goes to show how committed they are to getting things right.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

To get the most out of working with Parliament, everyone from your company has to be fully committed to the process. If not, they can’t do their job right.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I was the chief creative officer at Rivian, an electric vehicle startup primarily focused on SUVs and trucks. I was responsible for our brand and automotive designs.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Parliament?

My company hired Parliament to provide branding services. We wanted to shift the direction in which our company was going to be more of a Pacific Northwest lifestyle brand. In particular, we wanted the brand to reflect the future of transportation, such as self-driving cars.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Parliament helped us redefine our brand identity. They underwent a lengthy discovery process, during which they analyzed why Rivian existed and what we wanted to provide to the world. Then, they built a new website that was more in line with our brand identity. Finally, Parliament produced a short video that they linked to the site.

What is the team composition?

We worked with a team that ranged from 5–12 people. This included Chris (Founder and Creative Director, Parliament), account managers, graphic and motion designers, and copywriters. For the video production work, Parliament hired subcontractors to do the voiceovers and music.

How did you come to work with Parliament?

My company had an agency of record in Chicago, but they didn’t fit our brand or company goals. We looked at around five agencies across the US, and none of them understood our vision. Prior to joining Rivian, I’d worked at a multinational athletic apparel and equipment company, and it was in this context that I knew Parliament. We asked them for a quote, and they comprehended the brand we wanted to create.  

How much have you invested with them?

Rivian spent around $275,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

The project lasted about a year, from May 2017–May 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

After Parliament rebranded our company and created a new website, we experienced higher site traffic and lead generation.

How did Parliament perform from a project management standpoint?

Project management was excellent. Parliament’s team was very professional and timely; my team caused any scheduling issues. I’ve worked with a lot of brand agencies, and Parliament provided one of the best working relationships I’ve had yet.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They understood the lifestyle brand that we wanted to establish. Parliament didn’t have considerable expertise in futuristic vehicles, but they were incredibly knowledgeable about branding. We were struck by their ability to study future demographics and tie those into their work.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I didn’t think so. They did a great job doing what we asked of them.

Any advice for potential customers?

They were incredibly involved and proactive, so I don’t have any advice on how to get the most out of the partnership. The whole team gave 110%.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the president of WYLD, a cannabis edibles producer. We sell THC and CBD products.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Parliament?

We hired Parliament to help us with branding.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Parliament is helping us structure our brand strategy. We’re about halfway through the project. Currently, they’re analyzing our company to help us determine our brand identity. They have interviewed the other owners of the company and me. We’ve been discussing our vision, brand, and what we’d like to see out of their work. Parliament will be using this information to further develop our mission, vision, and values, and some general content surrounding those areas.  

What is the team composition?

We consistently work with 4–5 Parliament team members.

How did you come to work with Parliament?

We were seeking an agency that could help us with long-term brand planning, and my friend referred us to Parliament.

How much have you invested with them?

The contracted proposal was around $50,000. We paid a retainer of $10,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

The collaboration began in May 2019, and the work is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

Our work together is very new, but the brand strategy that Parliament develops will guide our company’s future. Their work will also help our holding company better structure their marketing so that they can eventually take on more brands.  

How did Parliament perform from a project management standpoint?

Their deliverables have been well-detailed and on time. We have meetings to brainstorm, pitch ideas, and ask questions.

What did you find most impressive about them?

We’ve been impressed by their strategic thinking and planning. Unlike other design agencies I’ve come across, Parliament considers long-term brand strategy and growth.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Everything they’ve done for us has been great. Parliament should consider updating their website; when referred to them, we found that their site didn’t have much of their current work nor provide a good sense of their capabilities.

Any advice for potential customers?

The more honest you are, the more Parliament can help. The work that we’re doing with them speaks truthfully about our brand and vision.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a brand creative manager at an optics manufacturer.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Parliament?

My company hired Parliament to create and produce some of our marketing materials. I’m responsible for the creative team that develops our collateral and does all of our advertising, and we needed help with overflow work.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

First, Parliament worked with my team to conceptualize and create our complete 2019 product catalog and guide, which we give to retailers to help them understand our products and their features. We then followed the same process to create a seasonal consumer catalog and guide. Parliament contributed various storytelling components, which led to several rounds of conceptualization before the final delivery of the design files.

Currently, Parliament is helping us develop new brand guidelines. They're streamlining our brand and product identities, tone, and voice. They’re also analyzing our current creative campaign so that they can evolve it in the future.    

What is the team composition?

My team engages with five Parliament team members, including a designer, a copywriter, an account manager, and strategists.

How did you come to work with Parliament?

We looked at a few local agencies and ultimately chose Parliament.

What is the status of this engagement?

Our partnership began in August 2018, and it is ongoing. Parliament completed the retailer and consumer catalog projects, and they’re still working on the brand guideline and ad evolution work.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

We don’t have any discernible KPIs, but they’ve been great to work with. They’re a dynamic group that thinks strategically.

How did Parliament perform from a project management standpoint?

They’ve been good.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Smaller agencies like Parliament seem more personally invested in the success of the project. Parliament is invested not only in the deliverables but also in our relationship.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Our projects have gone smoothly. I think they’ve done what they needed to do.

Any advice for potential customers?

Make sure you have a point person on your side to work with Parliament’s point person.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

Icon Motorsports is an internationally distributed motorcycle apparel brand. We design our lines to appeal to the most at-risk group of riders out there, namely people who don't normally wear protective gear. As the art director, my responsibilities include our website and producing all our marketing content. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Parliament?

We hired Parliament to create our new consumer-facing website. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Parliament handled both the design and development for our company’s website.  They programmed the platform from the ground up on a Craft CMS.

At the time of launch, we carried three interconnected brands: our Icon brand, a premium apparel line, and an adventure sport riding brand. All three sites needed to communicate within one CMS, which was the most challenging aspect of the project.

It was difficult to find a vendor that could handle the amount of work we needed to complete, but Parliament was capable of creating multisite functionality within one CMS.

How did you come to work with Parliament?

I was tasked with finding an agency that could handle our project. I’d heard about Parliament in the past and saw them during my research, so I reached out to learn more about their exact capabilities. 

Our first meeting gave me the sense that our companies had a similar vision and style of working. We felt that Parliament was the best suited to handle this job.

How much have you invested with them?

The total cost was about $120,000 for the main project. Beyond that, we've probably spent an additional $10,000– $20,000 with Parliament on updating and adding new features to our website.

What is the status of this engagement?

I initially contacted Parliament in May 2015 and our first project lasted through the fall of 2016 when we launched our website.  Throughout the years, we have worked with them several different times. They've mainly updated our website and added new features.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

We monitor a couple of metrics to measure progress, but our brand is unique because it's not an e-commerce website. I assume we judge success differently than most clients, since we don't have revenue coming in and out of our website. 

The main KPIs we track relate to user information. We have definitely seen an uptick in our subscription rates and new user information that we didn't have previously. 

Parliament is a team of amazing people. They offered useful insights into the ideas we proposed. I feel like we formed some really nice friendships out this engagement, as well. 

How did Parliament perform from a project management standpoint?

Parliament is great at communicating with us. They keep us informed about what's going on when we're not there. We always know what specific work they're accomplishing. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

The reason we chose Parliament is that their passions were in line with our own. They love the outdoors and adventure, and they want to take risks.  They demonstrated many strengths we value in our office, as well. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

Off the top of my head, I can't really think of anything. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I give Parliament my full recommendation. I couldn't have asked for anything better. They did an amazing job on our website. Personally, they were great people to work with and I found them very professional.  I would continue to work with them if given the chance.