Blog | Ditto! Design!

Why do I Call Myself the Savvy Brander?

It’s a good question. Savvy is a term open to many interpretations. On a personal level it’s someone who’s shrewd, perceptive, or street smart. In business, I see it as…

The Power of Color

Color creates an immediate, instinctive connection in our minds. It speaks to our likes and dislikes, the products we buy and the brands we follow, our patriotic commitment, and our…

On My Bookshelf: Scramble, Marty Neumeier

If you’re looking for an entertaining and informative read, why not try a business book with a twist in its tale? Scramble is a business thriller by brand guru Marty…

QR Codes: Connect with Your Audience Wherever They Are

Have you noticed? Little boxes of static are suddenly everywhere. You see them in store windows, on restaurant receipts, in magazine ads. They are on food packaging, flyers, and even…

In Brief: A Roadmap to Remarkable Results

I said before I’d say it again, and guess what? Here we are already! I want to talk a little more about collaboration in today’s blog. Specifically, about how we…

To Your Customers, Small Gestures Make a Big Impact

We recently contracted Colonial Roofing to replace the roof on our garage. We were delighted with the professionalism of the crew and the great work they did. But what really…

Collaboration Works Both Ways

I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again. And again, and again! Collaboration is a key element of great design. Every client has their own perspective on what they…

On My Bookshelf: Designing Brand Identity: An Essential Guide for the Whole Branding Team

As a design and brand expert, I’ve amassed quite a few remarkable books on brand and design over the years (I know, it’s a shocker). Occasionally I’d like to recommend…

Brand 101 – On Brand (and Identity, and Branding)

We know what a brand is, right? We’re all certainly able to recognize a brand, but do you know how your brand informs and amplifies your business strategy? Do you…

How QR Codes Can Drive New Customers to Your Business

One significant benefit of using QR codes in your marketing strategy is the ability to encourage interaction with your business anywhere you want. All you need is an appropriate surface…

Every August, Ditto! clients Gillis Architects and Karen Thomas Associates have a joint outing for their families and employees. For years, we’ve designed something unique to commemorate these events. In…

Howdy! I’m Rick, a brand expert and seasoned graphic designer in NY’s Hudson Valley. For more than 40 years I’ve been creating remarkable brand solutions for individuals, companies and nonprofits here and beyond.

I want people to understand why brand is essential to their business, share a few personal experiences, and explore what goes into a good (or bad) design.