What's in a name?

[Harry321]

What do you guys think of business/domain names that are spelt wrong on purpose? e.g. Kool-Aid, Froot Loops, etc...

I'm in the process of choosing a brand name after importing some samples, and after much deliberation I think I've found a marketable, well-sounding name. Unfortunately the .com is taken, however I can spell one of the words with a k instead of a c, this actually makes both words start with a K which is kind of cool, but I worry about the longevity of choosing an incorrect spelling for a business name, and whether it will hinder any sales.

Any feedback much appreciated, I find that choosing a name/creating brand identity is one of the most interesting and creative processes of starting, and I'm sure it will be useful for other entrepreneurs to discuss how to find the perfect name.

 

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[Mamadoo]

Depends on the business. The ones you mentioned are both marketed to kids so it makes the brand sound more fun and what not.

 

[PaulRobert]

but I worry about the longevity of choosing an incorrect spelling for a business name, and whether it will hinder any sales.

.

It depends on the type of product and target audience. 99% people will pay more attention to the value that it provides for them than the name of the product. My brand has a shortened version of a standard word that underlines red every time. But do my clients care about that? No. They care what the product does for them.

 

[randomnumber314]

Name is pretty unimportant for the most part. AT&T sells phones, CBS is a media company, Zynga sells games, and Google runs the internets.

It's more what you do with the name, than the name. (Unless your brand went from Chris's Classical Clowns to Kris's Klassical Klowns.)

 

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[Esquire]

Two thoughts ...

Yes ... at least to some extent ... the other site will be the residual beneficiary.

But ... from a lawyers standpoint ... consider:

Is the domain name also the name of their brand ...? If so ... you might run into some trademark problems ... especially if you are in the same business.

For example ... if I started a dating site called "G-Harmony" ... I'd have my a$$ handed to me for trademark dilution.

Ditto if I tried to launch a credit report service called "FreeKreditReport.com"

Or if I launched a social media platform called "Fasebook"

Up to you. But something to consider ...

 

[Harry321]

I'm glad you have confirmed that a name's strength is based on how you use it.. I suppose the only doubt I have is in regards to SEO and people Googling mis-spelled names...