Should I source my inspiration locally or globally?

WARNING - This is going to sound obnoxious. 
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It doesn’t make it less true, but obnoxious nonetheless. 
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The competitive advantage of hiring global creative partners is not just cost.

It’s innovation.
 

In some cases, hiring a creative partner that “just gets” the local tone, references, and aesthetics is what’s going to leave your brand swimming in a sea of sameness. 
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Innovation is brought about by seeing things differently. 
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How many innovated by breaking out of their context? 

Well, this can be reverse-engineered. 

Don’t believe it?
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• 1. Chermayeff & Geismar (Israel) designed Chase Bank’s visual ID, the biggest bank in America
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• 11. Massimo Vignelli (Italy) designed The New York Subway Map
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• 111. Pep Guardiola (Spain) designed, arguably the greatest team in Premier League history

This phenomenon repeats itself across not just design, it repeats itself across life. So when you next go “offshore”, do it to bring innovation to your brand, not to cut costs at all costs. 

Agree or disagree? Let me, Oliver, or Oli, know in the comments or a strongly worded email (hello@mused.design). 

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The Free Branding Movement is a fund sponsored by Mused that selects one brand, based on the merit of its core mission and founding team, for a full visual identity, free of charge. You can find registration details here.