Arial, the standard font that we see when we open a new document, isn’t the problem. Standards are. So how does Arial conflict with having standards of excellence in your business?

When you think of “brand standards” for your business, does it conjure up images of logos, color schemes, and taglines meticulously crafted to represent a company’s identity? While this is part of it, there exists a deeper layer to brand consistency that extends beyond aesthetics—a layer that permeates through every document, presentation, and communication produced by an organization. This layer is encapsulated in what we at BlueprintOS call “Maxims,” succinct statements that transcend core values and delve into the very essence of a company’s culture.

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Never Send a Document in Arial

One such Maxim, aptly named “Never Send a Document in Arial,” may seem trivial at first glance, but its significance reverberates throughout Blueprint’s ethos and operational framework. It isn’t about a font at all, at its core, this maxim embodies a commitment to uniformity and intentionality in every facet of communication. It’s about more than just selecting a font; it’s about crafting a narrative of excellence and attention to detail that permeates every interaction, internal and external.

The rationale behind this seemingly arbitrary rule becomes clear with closer examination. While fast-paced business operations make default settings (like Arial in a document) the norm, deviation can lead to a haphazard mishmash of styles and formats—a Frankenstein document, if you will. By establishing a standard template for all documents in our Playbook For Creating Playbooks, BlueprintOS ensures cohesion and clarity across its internal and external communications. This consistency fosters efficiency and professionalism, setting a precedent for quality that extends far beyond mere aesthetics.

More Than a Style Choice

But the implications of “Never Send a Document in Arial” extend beyond practicality; they speak to a broader philosophy of deliberate action and purposeful design. By instilling a culture that values meticulous attention to detail in the seemingly mundane, we cultivate a mindset of excellence that permeates every aspect of its operations. As Steve Jobs famously remarked, “Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” In the same vein, the choice of font becomes emblematic of a deeper commitment to excellence in all endeavors.

How Brand Standards Reflect Customer Experience

Moreover, the impact of consistent branding and design standards transcends internal operations and manifests in tangible benefits for clients and customers alike. Just as a meticulously designed iPhone conveys a sense of craftsmanship and quality, so too do meticulously crafted documents and presentations. In a world inundated with information, attention to detail becomes a distinguishing factor—a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence.

We use emojis instead of icons in our documents. While the use of emojis may seem trivial to some, their inclusion serves a purpose beyond mere decoration. In the realm of digital communication, emojis serve as visual cues that enhance readability and comprehension. By integrating these seemingly small elements into its documents, this standard within BlueprintOS elevates the user experience and fosters engagement—a testament to its commitment to delivering value at every touchpoint.

The Power of Brand Standards

At its core, “Never Send a Document in Arial” embodies a philosophy of intentionality and excellence—an ethos that permeates every aspect of our operations. By adhering to strict design standards and embracing a culture of meticulous attention to detail, BlueprintOS sets itself apart as a beacon of quality and professionalism in a crowded marketplace. In doing so, it not only enhances its own brand identity but also elevates the overall standard of excellence within its industry.

We hope you can see how the power of brand standards extends far beyond logos and color schemes; it lies in the meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence that underpin every interaction. In a world where mediocrity is the norm, it serves as a shining example of what can be achieved through deliberate action and unwavering dedication to quality.

Grow Your Leadership

Bradley has many resources to grow your leadership in the area of vision and priorities. Check out a few of them:

Discover why  it is so critical to have brand and culture standards translate across all communications, trainings, and resources…and how to implement this in your own business through our Playbook For Creating Playbooks. Get the download!

In this free WebClass, learn how to design & install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Learn more…

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It’s difficult to get to your destination if you aren’t sure where you currently are! After all, the path from Minnesota to Canada is very different than the path from Mexico to Canada. If you aren’t certain where you’re at today in business, you need to take the Rainmaker to Architect assessment. It will gauge your strengths and weaknesses as a leader and in your business. Then, you’ll get detailed, specific suggestions for improvement. Take the assessment here.

MEET YOUR COACH

BRADLEY HAMNER

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Bradley is a Business Growth Coach and Value Builder consultant, empowering entrepreneurs to become architects of their own success. He shares his revolutionary BlueprintOS methodology, unlocking businesses’ true potential and driving remarkable achievements.

Learn more about BlueprintOS and Bradley…