Introduction

Before our company had a name, a client list, or a portfolio, there was BidBid.

What began as a college assignment became the project that launched our Director Chris Spencer’s career. The challenge was to identify a problem, develop an original solution, and build a complete brand around it. Chris took the project beyond the classroom—transforming an initial concept into a marketable platform that attracted an investor, led to its eventual sale, and established his first professional client relationship.

BidBid became the starting point for the strategic, creative, and entrepreneurial approach that continues to shape our company today.

Objective

The assignment called for a new brand that addressed a problem within social media and networking. Chris approached it as an opportunity to create more than a portfolio piece—developing a viable concept with its own identity, digital experience, and market strategy.

The goals were to:

• Create a distinctive and marketable brand
• Design an engaging, user-friendly mobile platform
• Develop messaging that clearly communicated its value
• Position the concept for potential users and investors

Process

1. Concept Development

Research revealed a common frustration with professional networking: messages were often ignored, interactions frequently became sales pitches, and busy professionals had little time for conversations without a clear purpose.

Inspired by the phrase “time is money,” Chris developed BidBid—a platform where users could bid for dedicated time with professionals, creators, athletes, mentors, and other experts.

Auction creators could define the meeting format, topic, and purpose, while the winning bidder received a guaranteed one-on-one experience. Proceeds could compensate the host or benefit a charity of their choice. The concept extended beyond traditional networking to include mentorships, master classes, training sessions, specialized lessons, and other valuable exchanges.

2. Brand Identity

The identity was designed to make networking and bidding feel more approachable, energetic, and human.

• Naming: BidBid provided a simple, memorable name directly connected to the platform’s purpose.
• Logo: Rounded forms and conversation-inspired elements softened the traditionally rigid feel of professional networking.
• Color: Two vibrant primary colors represented separate individuals coming together through one meaningful connection.

3. Brand Guidelines

A complete style guide established consistency across the platform and its supporting materials.

• Typography: Clean, legible typefaces supported readability across devices.
• Imagery: Visual direction focused on authentic, relevant, high-quality photography.
• Voice and tone: Messaging was professional, approachable, and energetic.

4. Messaging Strategy

The brand’s messaging centered on making professional connections more purposeful.

Tagline: A new way to network.

Supporting messaging positioned BidBid as a way to create valuable connections while giving users the opportunity to learn, grow, promote their expertise, or support a meaningful cause.

5. App Development

The concept was translated into a functional digital experience through wireframing, prototyping, interface design, development, and testing.

The user experience was designed to make creating auctions, discovering opportunities, placing bids, and arranging meetings simple and intuitive.

6. Launch and Marketing

A phased launch strategy was developed to introduce the platform, build awareness, and attract early users. Supporting digital campaigns, social content, email communication, and educational content helped explain the unfamiliar concept and demonstrate its potential.

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