How To Organize Your Brand Portfolio?
A brand portfolio is simply a collection of multiple brands that co-exist under a single organization. Portfolio structures offer clarity on how those brands are organized and deployed to cover various targeted products, markets and audiences without overlap.
The Need For Clarity
A brand portfolio is simply a collection of brands that co-exist under a single umbrella. Portfolio structures offer clarity on how those brands are organized and operate to cover various product and markets, usually without overlap. The brands within the portfolio draw from and reinforce the overarching strategy of the parent company.
The need for an established portfolio structure is critical as it helps avoid confusion, both internal and external. It also supports the creation and management of brand portfolio architectures.
As organizations adapt and compete within an ever-changing ecosystem, a formal organizational structure becomes a necessary tool and platform for growth.
Organizing A Brand Portfolio
BY GROUPING
Here, brands are logically grouped under a common characteristic. They may be categorized by segment, product type, quality, benefit, technology, distribution channel, activity, etc. For instance, we could classify Marriott hotels by quality – Marriott for luxury and Fairfield Inn for economy stays.
HP printer offerings are categorized by technology – DeskJet, OfficeJet and LaserJet series. Classification by segment, product-type and quality feature in many portfolios as they tend to prevail in most markets.
Sony organizes by business units. Each unit is further broken down and organized by other portfolio structures.
Grouping tends to work best in conglomerates and typically reflect the highest levels in the portfolio structure from where further distinctions take place.
BY HIERARCHY
Hierarchy trees are two-dimensional diagrams and showcase the portfolio horizontally and vertically. Horizontally, it reflects the scope of business and vertically, it illustrates the number of master brands, sub-brands or endorsed brands needed to support the product-market strategy. Hierarchy trees are the most common form of representing a portfolio and are the simplest to interpret by all stakeholders. For instance, consider Ford’s partial brand portfolio shown below.
BY NETWORKS
Networks are graphical representations of portfolio brands indicating links and influences among them. Aaker, in his book, “Brand Portfolio Strategy“, used Nike as an example of a networked portfolio architecture, a partial representation of which is illustrated below. The trouble with networks is that they can easily become complicated and difficult to comprehend as the portfolio grows and evolves with time. They also make it difficult for external stakeholders to make sense of easily.
Goals of Brand Portfolio Organization
CLARITY
Portfolio organization helps reduce confusion and achieve clarity for all stakeholders. Internal stakeholders must understand the overarching business strategy and help individual brands attain desired objectives. Customers should find it easy to navigate the organization’s offerings most relevant to their needs.
EXTENSION
By the organization of the brands and their roles within the portfolio, it becomes easier to make decisions when it comes to new product-market extensions.
GAP ANALYSIS
A clear structure helps determine where gaps and opportunities exist. It also helps sort out and correct overlaps where applicable.
RESOURCE ALLOCATION
Resources can be allocated strategically among the various brands based on future potential, business climate, competition, technological change, and other possible factors.
RELEVANCY
Given the changes in the external environment, it becomes necessary to add, delete or modify some brands in order to maintain relevance. It may warrant brand alliances or co-branding programs. The portfolio structure must accommodate for such changes.
Conclusion
Portfolio structures must be logical and uncomplicated. Each brand should operate within its scope of activity and work in sync with the parent company’s strategic direction.
Decisions pertaining to the addition, modification or deletion of any master brand, sub-brand or endorsed brand, are easier when one has a complete perspective of the portfolio. For more information on brand portfolio architecture, visit – Brand Portfolio Architecture – An Overview.
Hi! I’m Sheldon. For over ten years I’ve worked with brands and private labels bringing some pretty awesome products to market. I’ve worked on research-based product development and marketing to deliver the total package.
I’m instantly drawn towards products that are deep-rooted in consumer research. The type that ends up being simple and intuitive, yet profound and potentially disruptive.
I’m equally passionate about brand strategy. I believe that the only thing that trumps a good product is a brand that connects with people on a deeper level.
If this resonates with you and your current need, I’d love to hear more about it.
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