The quote suggests that a company's success fundamentally hinges on the quality of its products or services rather than how it markets itself. It implies that branding efforts, while crucial for visibility and perception, do not ultimately determine whether a brand will thrive or fail; the core offering does.
On a deeper level, this statement challenges the common notion that effective marketing is enough to create a successful business. While branding can enhance awareness and customer appeal, it cannot compensate for shortcomings in product quality or service delivery. The quote also highlights an inherent tension between companies focusing on substance versus style, suggesting that brands sometimes overemphasize their marketing prowess at the expense of improving what they actually sell. This perspective encourages businesses to prioritize excellence in their offerings rather than just crafting a compelling brand image.
Stefan Sagmeister is a renowned graphic designer and artist known for his innovative work and thought-provoking insights on design, branding, and creativity. His career has been marked by an emphasis on the importance of substance over style, making him a respected voice in the creative industry.
