Free guide · Brand

How to choose a brand name you can actually own online

Nine checks to run on your shortlist before you buy a domain, print a sign or order a van livery, and the two jobs to do once you have chosen. With a scoring sheet to compare names side by side.

  • Domain, social handle and search checks, step by step
  • The hidden history of a domain, and how to see it
  • A scoring sheet to compare up to four names

PDF · 9 pagesAbout 30 minutes a nameFree

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What is inside

Nine checks, two jobs and a scoring sheet

  1. Start with something that does not exist yet
  2. Rule out the names that will cause trouble
  3. Is the domain available?
  4. Are the social handles available?
  5. How busy is the search?
  6. Check what the domain used to be
  7. Check its registration history
  8. Search the name on social media
  9. Check trade marks and company names
  10. Secure everything in one go
  11. Own the search for your own name
  12. The scoring sheet

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Who it is for

Written for owners, not marketers

You are starting a business

And want a name that will not cost more to establish than it should.

You are launching a new product

And want to check the name is free before anyone gets attached to it.

You are thinking about a rebrand

And want to know what you would be giving up, and what you would gain.

Want us to check them?

Send us your shortlist and we will score every name

We will run all nine checks on each name you are considering and send you back a scored comparison, with the reasons. No charge, and no obligation to work with us afterwards. Checking names is part of our brand setup work, alongside the accounts and listings a new name needs.