Government interference with iconic branding will make our institutions feckless
As the NSW government begins the process of replacing its institution’s unique branding with the state symbol, Principals director Sandy Belford argues the move will implicitly reduce their power.
What has happened to conservative government butting out of people’s lives and quietly facilitating their version of progress, as opposed to trumpeting over all that gets done in their name?
When the NSW state government instructed state-owned institutions such as the Opera House and Taronga Zoo to alter their distinctive branding and give greater prominence to the state symbol, the Waratah, to “ensure consistency across public sector communications and improve recognition of NSW Government projects”, I had to wonder.
Government branding is always going to be tricky as people don’t really understand what government actually does. They don’t run zoos or art galleries. They support and fund them, a vital difference. It’s true they rarely get credit. So, if its frustration they are feeling, I understand.
Clearly the people making this decision have zero understanding about brands or branding.
Sydney is a world-class city, but is increasingly becoming trite because of the interference of the NSW government.
The world’s best cities (Berlin, Amsterdam, London, New York, Melbourne) are treated as melting pots of different ideas and aesthetics… Areas are allowed to flourish with their distinct personalities, leading to all manner of diverse experiences.
Sydney, on the other hand, is becoming a one-dimensional joke.
Casino anyone?
It doesn’t help that the branding is just plain bad design too – with no sense of style or spirit.
This is plain bonkers? Don’t do a Federal Government. Each agency has it’s own purpose (as the author notes). Purpose is everything, especially when attracting staff and of course consumers.