Identity,Image and Reputation

IDENTITY:
A company’s identity and image are two most critical components of the corporate communication function has to deal with. Company’s identity is the visual manifestation of a company’s reality conveyed through organization name logo,motto,products,services,buildings,uniform,and all other tangible pieces of evidence created by the organization and communicated to a variety of constituencies. Identity should stand in line with the company’s core values, philosophies, standards and goals.

Methods used by many companies to manage identity process.
Conduct an identity audit: The company should find out how the public views the organization and what it symbols represent to different constituencies.
Set identity objectives :The goals should be set by senior management and must explain how each constituency should react to specific identity proposals.
Develop and design names: The company should ensure that name and logos continue to reflect the company’s reality.
Develop prototypes: Consultants develop models arising the new symbols or name.
Launch and communicate: Reporters should be informed about the new identity.
Implement the program

IMAGE:

Image is a reflection of an organization identity. An organization image is how constituencies perceive the organization based upon all messages , it sends out through names,logos,self-presentation ,employees etc.

Image is formed from some or many out of intended communication, unintended communication, word of mouth, reputation, transaction and post transaction experience. Many of these are out of control but with proper communication organization can build and improve an image.

REPUTATION:

When an organization identity and image are aligned ,the foundation for a solid reputation exists. Reputation is build up over time .A strong reputation is important for a firm because it calls attention to a company’s attractive features.

From my personal experience, when i go to buy any clothes the things which come to my mind is the advertisements of levis or the hordings put up. So this image, the identity and Reputation plays a vital factor in any situation, maybe in buying shoes, clothes or any products.