FAQs

What is NameBridge?
NameBridge is a global market research service that field-tests and validates brand names across languages and global markets. Our process draws from our global team of linguist-experts and in-country specialists, whose findings include both quantitative and qualitative insights into what your brand names mean in a given market.

What kinds of “names” can you test?
NameBridge can test any product name, company name, acronym, tag line, slogan, catch-phrase or other linguistic unit. We also test package designs, logos, labels, or other graphic elements for their effectiveness in the global marketplace. To learn more, see What We Test*.

How long does NameBridge take?
Depending on size and complexity, a NameBridge project can take from one to three weeks or more. Rush schedules can sometimes be accommodated.

What kind of deliverable do I get?
The NameBridge deliverable is a Final Report. There are three levels—Basic, Silver, and Gold. To learn more about the NameBridge Final Report, click here*. In addition to the Final Report, our Global-Ready Group can be available to meet with you to discuss our findings and help you review strategic options.

What’s a typical cost?
Several factors make up the cost of a NameBridge project, including the number of names to be tested and the sampling plan (number of languages, countries or markets, as well as the statistical “depth” of the survey). To request an estimate for your potential NameBridge project, contact us.

Can you keep me from being embarrassed cross-culturally?
That’s the whole point of NameBridge. Find out what your proposed Names imply now, or find out later! Think of NameBridge as an investment in getting your brand name right before you take it global, instead of paying for damage control later.

In the past, we’ve “tested” our new product names by asking in-country specialists. Is NameBridge any better?
Names are complex things, fraught with layers of meaning and connotation. It takes a solid process and a team of experts to vet and assess the viability of a name in a given market or language. While your in-country people may be willing to offer an opinion on the viability of a name, you need a formal process, managed by professional linguists, to truly put your brand name through its paces and ask all the right questions.

Do you make recommendations or give expert opinions as to what’s the best name?
Our Gold Report includes expert opinions and a final recommendation or ranking. For a full description of what you get in the Gold Report, click here*.

Can I use NameBridge to translate a concept phrase in different ways?
Yes. Our Brand Name Development* services dovetail with our Global Testing & Validation* services to first develop and then test your names and concept phrases. It’s a seamless process from creation to testing to selection, then to market.

What are the qualifications of the NameBridge team?
Our team of global linguists is among the best in the business. Trained in linguistics, translation, cross-cultural marketing, and with deep experience in a wide range of industries, the NameBridge team comprises a unique skillset of global know-how. Our team covers over 188 languages and dialects in over 90 countries and markets, all tied together in a single set of business processes designed to make your brand name ring true in any language, market or medium.