Clients

Our clients include many top marketing companies and we are proud of how many of our clients return to us for follow on work. One client refers to us as their ‘black jelly bean’, acknowledging our unique thinking and approaches.
 

We think we are defining a new role for research, one that elevates the role of researcher to that of business partner in driving change. Our contribution is strategies that are informed by insights, that lead to stronger positionings, product enhancements and white space opportunities for new product innovation. We also help our clients map out effective messaging strategies, build efficient brand architectures for optimizing a clear go-to-market presentation and make decisions about pricing, packaging and co-branding opportunities.

Case Histories

  • University of Notre Dame
  • Harlem Globetrotters
  • Westlake Ace Hardware

  • notre dame logoUniversity of Notre Dame Young Alumni 
     

    The University of Notre Dame has over young 20,000 alumni, those who graduated within the past 10 years. The young alumni giving rate of 32% is low relative to the overall rate of 42%, and only 6% give $500 or more each year. Notre Dame wanted to explore the idea of a special giving society designed to increase giving participation and amounts among young alums. 
     

    Our efforts revealed that many young alumni would give more if they were asked the right way. What’s more, a $500 giving level is not out of reach for many who are grateful for their student experience and motivated to give back. Last year, the University launched the Corby Society with invitations modeled on wedding invitations. The Society enrolled almost 500 members in the first year and generated an incremental $250,000 in donations. Equally important, the Society has helped to strengthen the ties between the university and its future major donors of the future.  

  • harlem globe trotters logoHarlem Globetrotters
     

    Everyone knows the Harlem Globetrotters, but in 2008, this 82-year old brand was in danger of losing relevance. With 240 events worldwide each year, the Globetrotters needs to continually reach new generations of audiences. With so many family entertainment options, what message would bring audiences through in the doors?
     

    Our exploration among recent attendees and prospects revealed that Mom, not Dad, is the key decision-maker. What does Mom want to see? Actually she doesn’t much care as long as kids are happy and family memories are made. Her ultimate parental pay off is a shared memory that will become family legend. The Globetrotters interactive format is idea for delivering the smiles they love to see. In 2008, a new ad campaign from agency, WONG DOODY, promised a show that was as “Magic as Ever”, and promised mom a memorable shared family experience. That year, the Globetrotters sold out every performance on its tour and sold 18% more tickets than the previous year. Its 2010 “Magical Memories” tour promises to ensure the Globetrotters will continue to win audiences for years to come.

  • ace hardware logoWestlake Ace Hardware
     

    Westlake Ace Hardware is the largest retailer within the Ace Hardware franchise and a Midwest favorite for purchasing home maintenance and garden supplies. Recent expansions by Home Depot and Lowe’s in key trading areas caused Westlake Ace to take a closer look at its brand.  
     

    Our exploration revealed that many homeowners are focused more on ‘has what I need’ rather than ‘has lots of choices’ when deciding where to shop. This allowed us to help Westlake turn a potential vulnerability into a strength. Smaller store size means shoppers can find what they needed more easily, especially for quick trips when only one or two items all that is needed. Westlake customers feel welcome and appreciate the store’s friendly and knowledgeable associates. Since many homeowners do not feel like home repair pros, service wasa potentially meaningful point of difference. Westlake Ace Hardware used these insights to re-brand its stores and web site using the tagline, “Small Projects. Big Know How. Ask Away.” Today, the store is more than holding its own against its much larger competitors.