Brands need to be different and distinctive
I believe that truly strong brands – the brands that command a price premium and still grow faster than their competition – possess both qualities and that both are important. But people often assume that differentiation and distinctiveness are the same thing. With that in mind, here is my take on differentiation. You can find my definition of distinctiveness here.
Differentiation separates a brand from its competition
To be perceived as different a brand must possess a contrasting element that distinguishes it from close competition.
Differentiation is grounded in how a brand is experienced and perceived by the consumer. Differentiation for differentiation's sake, however, will have little positive effect, the customer must perceive that the difference makes the brand more valuable to them. To influence purchase behavior, it must make the brand more meaningful to the buyer in some way.
Differentiation based in tangible brand assets
Differentiation is most potent when it is based on a relevant and tangible aspect of the product or service that can be experienced through the senses. But, as many are quick to note, this form of differentiation can easily be matched by competition if it appears to offer the brand some form of advantage with customers. And features that might be technically differentiating might go unappreciated by the public. Which is why perceived differentiation is often based on less tangible qualities.
Differentiation based on intangible assets
Differentiating and intangible assets can include provenance, a track record of innovation, or, increasingly, social and environmental responsibility. And people's memory of unique product features can long outlast their existence in the real world. A large part of the function of effective marketing is to create perceived differentiation, highlighting differentiating aspects of the brand or creating unique memories and experiences that help distinguish the brand in peoples' minds.
Brands are perceived as different
Sharp et al are keen to note that relatively few brands are perceived to be different from their competition. This is true to a degree. And therein lies its importance. Look at disruptive brands like Tesla, Amazon, Netflix, Uber, and TikTok. They are all perceived to be different from their competition. Look at long-established brands like Geico, Nike, Heineken, Olay, and Coca-Cola. They too manage to be perceived as different. Perceived differentiation allows a brand to grow fast and command a price advantage over close competition.
Unperceived differentiation
Much of the debate over whether differentiation matters focuses on consumer attitudes. But brands can gain competitive advantage over the competition from aspects of their business model not directly perceived by the end-consumer. In The Great Repeatable Business Model, Chri Zook and James Allen identify 15 basic categories of differentiation, only half of which might impinge on directly on consumer perceptions. So do not assume that just because a brand is not perceived to be different that it is commoditized, its business model might be what sets it apart.
What do you think? Do you have a different take on differentiation? Please share your thoughts.