It's amazing how complex language is, every letter has its place for a reason, and that is why, as you say, proper meaningful placement has to be considered. When the pronounciation of an alternative spelling is the same (as is often the case) then the aesthetics of the brand name could be considered even more important.
As another take on this, consider if you were wanting to promote something fast, light and easy to use, rather than feature rich and immersive, you would probably prefer a shorter version over a longer one.
I know it's a common font, but just by looking at the two spellings, your mind probably suggests to you that the top one if for a lighter, swifter, faster product \ experience:
Verdana
Verdanna
The extra 'n' seems to suggest something extra, perhaps more dense.
This area is so deep and complex though, that I suppose we are only scratching the surface.
