Branding Logo Design
A logo is a graphic element also referred to as an identifier, ideogram, symbol, sign or icon that can be used alone or coupled with a text element to form a logotype.
Logotypes are normally used as trademarks or commercial brand identifiers. Logo design is an important function for corporate recognition and product identification because the finished product creates vital memorability for a company and/or its products.
Logo design illustrates a business
The logo is the element that provides a businesses first impression. It is generally a simple element but can be difficult to create because it must convey so much with so little. When a new company is born, considerable effort goes into designing the logo that will appear on stationary, business cards, invoices, products, signage and even shipping cartons. In many cases, it even is utilized on the products themselves to create important ‘brand’ recognition for the company. The advantages of good logo design include:
- Promotion of the business in it’s markets
- Attraction of customers and prospects
- A distinct identity for the business that provides memorability
- Brand recognition for the company and it’s products
Important logo design characteristics
A good logo design is simple and eye-catching. It should never be garish or overly flamboyant. The design should use simple color pattern and short text. Logo design is best created by a professional graphic designer but may also be generated through the use of special software programs that provide designs from specified colors and sizes. The latest such programs incorporate a file of pre-defined designs or templates but cannot provide information about similar designs that have been produced. Logos, therefore, should always be registered and copyrighted by the company that uses it. Perhaps most important, a logo design should never be too loud or showy but rather should emphasize professionalism and productivity. Here are some important logo design tips:
- Use few colors, limited color and spot color
- Avoid using color gradients as distinguishing features in the design
- Design with vector graphics to permit multiple size renditions
- Be careful about design and trademark infringements
- Prepare a use manual for multiple sizes and applications
- Avoid using popular clip-art
- Don’t include the face of a living individual as a logo element
- Avoid using photography or overly complex images that may detract
- Stay away from items such as religious icons, national flags
You can outsource your logo design needs
If you need logo design help there is good news. Today, you can post your logo design requirements on a number of websites and receive bids from competent professional graphic designers. Internet websites for freelancers/independent contractors have worldwide reach, so you can safely expect numerous bids. Be sure to check out the bidders background and experience and read any review on the site from past projects the bidders handled.
