PEOPLE : YOU SHOULD KNOW
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If you accept that a picture is “ worth a thousand words ,” then it ’ s no surprise Instagram did so well . The problem , of course , for brands is that measuring the success of a photo on the app has traditionally been difficult . But that is where Stylinity found its hole into the market . Despite landing ahead of the selfie trend , the platform strove to become a successful iteration of a shoppable Instagram , an idea that a number of startups attempted and failed to create .
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The key , of course , is the ability to connect consumers to brands . Ultimately , whether you call it a shoppable Instagram or not , the goal is connect two sections of the industry .
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Connecting “ constituencies ” isn ’ t unique to Stylinity when it comes to this group though . NMRKT , too , seeks to offer better opportunities for independent influencers , providing real solutions to create unique options specific to their needs . The problem , before NMRKT , is the widespread use of “ general ” widgets ; reasonably priced , but impossible to customize .
As Jacobson and Fosbery explained , what makes NMRKT great is the ability to offer influencers options that are as customizable as a premium publisher , but at an accessible price like a widget .
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A common thread among our leaders is their attention to the needs of their clients , the brands and individuals that depend on these services to create better endproducts for the consumer . As anyone in this industry can attest to , any help to streamline processes and enhance efficiency provides opportunity to elevate the market to a whole new level .
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When it comes to the brand and retailer relationship , that ’ s where Modalyst comes in . Sherman and Miguel both recognize there are two key issues brands must overcome . The first : finding differentiated products is difficult for retailers ; the second : there ’ s generally a high cost associated with brand visibility , typically limiting burgeoning brands to local or regional exposure .
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The way Modalyst addresses both of these concerns is by connecting independent brands directly to stores , while allowing brands to expand their selling cycle . Of course for an up-and-coming brand , like those the company focuses on , this level of attention is crucial in getting off the ground and beginning the process of generating revenue . Returning focus to the idea that better processes create a better customer experience , Sherman offered this thought , “ People really want to stand out , and the independent brands fill that void .”
ISSUE ONE · THIRDWAVE 75