Optimizing Data through Storytelling

Written by: Emem Seno
Graphics by: Sophia Puerto
Posted on: Sept. 18 ,2025
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We often hear the line "Data is King," but there is more to that.

Data is the foundation of any good design. As a brand design studio, we know data gives us insights into our users’ needs and behaviors. But on its own, data can be dry and difficult to understand. The precision and calculation can come out as cold, emotionless, and unrelatable to people.

We’ve been taught that data should speak for themselves, as we believe it should. Data is the center of every business and organization. It tells us the strengths and weaknesses of a design and shows growth opportunities as well. But how might these numbers become more relevant to your clients?

That’s why the great King needs his partner.

If Data is King, Storytelling is the Queen.

Storytelling is the art of using words and visuals to communicate complex ideas that are both clear and compelling. It allows us to turn data into something meaningful and relatable to our audience.

When we optimize data through storytelling, we create brands that are not only informative but also engaging and persuasive. We help our users understand the data and inspire them to take action.

When you have good data, the story brings it to life. Storytelling guides your listeners toward making the right choice, or so we call it, “Choice Architecture”.

A brand’s story is supported by data, and data should be combined with exemplary storytelling to resonate with your listeners.

And with their just rule, the kingdom prospers...

Data and storytelling are two of the most potent tools brand designers have. When used together effectively, they can produce informative and engaging designs for a broad audience. By optimizing data through storytelling, businesses can create strategies that help their patrons understand their advocacy and expertise and then inspire them to take action and participate in your story.

As Cebu’s design philosophy continues to evolve and become a source of inspiration for future generations, one thing remains true – no matter the season, Cebuano brands and Cebuano creative professionals prove that brands can remain deeply local while appealing to international markets. By embracing this unique creative DNA, brands are crafted in ways that are both authentic and universally resonant. Here are five considerations to achieve this:

A good brand has both - data to validate and a good story that inspires audiences to take positive action.

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Graphic design, illustration and design support for one of the largest retail chain in the Philippines.

SM Seaside City Cebu

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A CEO's guide to building a lasting brand

Branding. For many entrepreneurs and start-up founders, it might feel overwhelming and intimidating.

Before we set sail on this journey, you must have a lot of questions in mind. What is branding? How will this affect my business? Do we have the budget? Do we really need a new logo?

Steering into the unknown is never an easy journey. The branding process, whether a startup, new product launch, or existing business is complex, it involves multiple processes with unforeseen unique challenges that must be navigated carefully. The key to sailing through this dark stormy journey of branding is having the right people on board.

Branding is the culmination of your business' values and the highest ideas of the company in the broadest context of our society and economy. Simply put, a brand is a reputation driven by a collective experience and perception from your customers. It tells them what they can expect from your products and services, and it differentiates your offering from that of your competitors - Intentional, honest and authentic.

In today’s corporate landscape, the CEO ties many knots. They lead the work that needs to be done and manages the risks that come along with it. They establish the roadmaps for the future and build the blueprint for success.

To survive and thrive, every CEO or Founding member must have a good anchor of understanding why the business exists. We believe that brands must focus on a compelling story by answering 3 fundamental questions or face adrift.

What drives you to be of service to humanity?
How do you add value to your audience?
Who are your beneficiaries and what do they really need?

Brands built in the overlap of those 3 essential questions develop a strong brand presence, driven by their holistic understanding of their audience and their needs. The results are worth the murky journey — a chest full of treasure if you will: a thriving company culture, crucial decisions made easier and a devoted customer rapport. This is one of the CEO’s greatest opportunities to champion their brand values, active employees and a well-designed brand.