J2 (Branding & Marketing)

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the creative director of a nonprofit serving youth and children through afterschool programs, job training, and education.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with J2 (Branding & Marketing)?

We were underway with a three-year, $6 million campaign.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We’ve done three separate projects with J2 (Branding & Marketing). Initially, we brought them in to create the materials for the campaign. Then, we asked them to create a brand platform. They interviewed alumni and different groups of people to understand us deeply. Now, we’re in the final stages of building a new website.

What is the team composition?

We’ve worked directly with two people, including a main point of contact.

How did you come to work with J2 (Branding & Marketing)?

They were recommended to us among a list of companies. Their quote was high compared to others, so we felt they were out of our range. However, they seemed to resonate with the style we wanted. It felt like a good fit, so we talked with the owner. We explained the situation, and they slimmed down on what they originally quoted us for, so we went with them.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent between $50,000–$100,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with them in November 2020, and our relationship is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The piece they made for our campaign has been well-received. We’ve compromised on price, but they’ve created a structure that we can update and design. In terms of the brand platform, they’ve helped us be more thoughtful and cohesive on how we push our identity.

Also, the website is mostly done, but it isn’t live yet because we have to upload more things. However, it’s gorgeous, and we’re sure it’ll get great feedback when it goes live.

How did J2 (Branding & Marketing) perform from a project management standpoint?

We communicate mainly by email and scheduled meetings. Sometimes I wish we could just pick up the phone; it’s more my style. However, they stay busy and drive the project forward. We don’t have to push back. Overall, they’ve been the right fit for us; they’re flexible.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They excel at the discovery phase. Between what they’ve learned from us to put together the campaign materials and our brand platform, they’ve hit it on our core values and who we are as an organization. They’ve honed on it quickly and accurately, distilling down the importance of our company.

Moreover, they’re open and collaborative, so we have a chill relationship. We trust them and what they bring to us with their skills.

Are there any areas they could improve?

They could come down on their price, but they’re really amazing at their job.