In the world of marketing and branding, it is very important to have an extremely strong positioning for your brand, product or service. The MDC model, developed by Riezebos and Van der Grinten, can help you with this. Here you will discover what the model stands for, who the model is intended for and what the difference is with the Knoster Model. We also give you a number of tips on how to apply the model yourself.
What does the MDC model stand for?
The MDC model stands for Market Position, Target Group and Competition and is also based on those three core components. It is a positioning model that helps marketers determine a strong and distinctive position in the market.
Market position
Market position involves identifying and understanding the current position of the brand or product in the market. This involves analyzing strengths and weaknesses, identifying opportunities and threats, and defining the desired position in the market.
Target audience
The target group aspect of the model focuses on understanding the needs, wishes and behavior of the target group. This includes segmenting the market, selecting relevant target groups and creating customer profiles. The MDC model emphasizes the importance of knowing and understanding the target audience to make effective positioning decisions.
Competition
The competitive aspect of the model involves analyzing the competitive position of other players in the market. This includes identifying competitors, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, and finding ways to stand out from the competition.
For whom was the MDC model developed?
The MDC model is intended for marketers, branding professionals and entrepreneurs who are looking for a structured approach to create an effective positioning of their brand, product or service. The model can be used for both large and small organizations and is applicable in different industries and markets.
Do you want to launch a new brand, reposition an existing brand or differentiate a product compared to the competition? In all cases, the MDC model provides a useful framework for making strategic positioning decisions.
In short, the MDC model is a valuable instrument for anyone who strives for a strong and distinctive positioning in the market, regardless of the size of the organization or the industry.
How do I apply the MDC model?
Applying the MDC model requires a structured approach and following some important steps. It is important to properly analyze your current market, understand your target group, map your competition, define your desired market position and choose a suitable positioning strategy. By following these steps you can effectively apply the MDC model and create a strong positioning for your brand or product.
Analyze your current market position
First, it is important to conduct a thorough analysis of your current position in the market. Identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. You do this, among other things, by examining your product offering, pricing, distribution channels, brand reputation and competitive position.
Get to know your target group
To understand your target group properly, it is important to conduct in-depth research into your target group. Segment the market based on relevant criteria, such as demographics, geographic data and behavioral characteristics. Then create customer profiles to gain a deeper understanding of the needs, wants, goals and challenges of your target group. You can then, for example, interview customers to find out why they use your product or service, or which elements were decisive in their purchasing process.
Identify your competition
Map your competitors and analyze their strengths and weaknesses. Instead of seeing your competition only as a threat, it is better to study your competition carefully and see if you can learn something. Additionally, identify the unique features and benefits that set you apart from the competition. Look for opportunities to differentiate yourself and thereby create a competitive advantage. Also look carefully at their findability in search engines, this also provides insight into possible opportunities.
Define your desired market position
Based on the analysis of your market position, target group and competition, you then determine the desired market position for your brand, product or service. This includes defining your brand values, unique selling points (USPs) and positioning statement. Make sure that your desired position is both distinctive and relevant to your target group.
Develop a positioning strategy
With the collected information and insights you can now create an effective one positioning strategy to develop. Determine the right messages, communication channels and marketing tactics to communicate your desired market position and reach your target group. Make sure you apply your positioning strategy consistently in all your marketing and communications.
Evaluate and adjust
Reality does not always go as planned. Positioning is not a one-time activity, but an ongoing process. Regularly evaluate your market position, analyze feedback from your target group and stay alert to changes in the market and competitors. Adjust your positioning strategy where necessary to remain relevant and respond to new opportunities.
Also read about the Knoster Model and Porter's Diamond model.
Need help with positioning issues?
Determining good positioning does not happen overnight and can be a challenging task. Do you need help putting these tips into practice? Then take Contact contact us, we are happy to help you!
