What it takes to win: Larson Design Group shares its insights on winning the SMPS National Marketing Communications Awards Competition

SMPS interviewed Brad Breneisen, graphic designer, with Larson Design Group, regarding his experience participating in the 2011 SMPS National Marketing Communications Awards (MCA). Brad shares compelling insight and advice for new and returning participants alike. Larson Design Group won first-place in the Target Marketing category during the 2011 awards competition.

SMPS: Why did you enter the MCA competition?
Brad: To gain recognition for our firm and to gain a better understanding of how our marketing efforts stack up against the competition.

SMPS: What about this project are you most proud?
Brad: Its effectiveness. The piece was produced for a specific purpose and it performed well.

SMPS: What do you think made your entry stand out from the competition?
Brad: Size. The piece is pocket-size and folds out to reveal a large amount of information. This provides a sense of good engineering and consideration for the end user while creating a surprising and memorable experience for the recipient.

SMPS: What does this recognition mean to you and to your firm?
Brad: This means we are continuing to improve how we develop and deliver our message. It also shows that you don’t need a large budget or outside agency to develop an effective marketing piece.

SMPS: How did you share the news about winning this award?
Brad: We published a press release and our graphic designer wrote a blog post to lend some insight into our development process.

SMPS: What did you learn from the other winning entries on display at Build Business?
Brad: We learned that good marketing is usually a response to meet specific needs and it’s almost always built on good branding.

SMPS: You have entered MCA more than once. What keeps you coming back?
Brad: Respect. We respect the experience and legacy of MCA and value every opportunity to gain feedback and recognition from SMPS.

SMPS: Do you have any advice for future entrants on how to plan/prepare a winning entry?
Brad: Focus on aspects of the project that reflect the core values of your firm and try to describe your entire team’s thought process from inception all the way through development, execution, and performance.

For information on entering the 2012 MCA competition—including categories descriptions, submittal requirements, and the entry form—visit the MCA web page. The discounted entry deadline is March 1 (postmarked), and the final entry deadline is March 15 (must be delivered by this date to the SMPS National Office to compete).

Pictured below is Larson Design Group’s 2011 first-place-winning entry in the Target Marketing category.