Are you in the process of getting a new company logo designed? Want to make sure your designer is coming up with the goods?

Your logo is normally the first thing your clients see when they are introduced to your business, so it’s important you get it right in order to set a great first impression. One of the most important things to consider is colour, make sure they resonate with your target audience.

For some guidance follow the 10 dos and don’ts in this infographic from 99 Designs.

 

In today’s visually-driven world, a logo is often the first impression a business makes on its potential customers. It’s the face of your brand, the symbol that encapsulates your company’s identity, values, and mission. Whether you’re starting a new venture or rebranding an existing one, getting a new logo designed is a crucial step in establishing your brand’s presence and identity.

However, designing a logo isn’t as simple as sketching something on a piece of paper or picking a random image from the internet. It requires careful thought, creativity, and a deep understanding of your brand. To help you navigate this process effectively, here are 10 dos and don’ts to consider when getting a new logo designed.

The Dos

1. Define Your Brand Identity

Before diving into logo design, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your brand identity. What does your business stand for? What are your values, mission, and vision? Who is your target audience? The more you know about your brand, the easier it will be to create a logo that accurately represents it.

2. Research Your Competition

Take a look at what your competitors are doing in terms of branding and logo design. This can help you identify trends in your industry and what sets your competitors apart. While you don’t want to copy their designs, understanding what works and what doesn’t can be valuable insight.

3. Keep It Simple

Simplicity is key when it comes to logo design. A simple, memorable logo is more likely to stick in people’s minds than a complex one. Think of iconic logos like Apple or Nike – they’re simple, yet highly effective. Avoid clutter, intricate details, and too many colors.

4. Consider Scalability

Your logo will appear on a variety of platforms, from business cards to billboards. Make sure your logo is scalable and looks good at different sizes. A logo that loses its clarity when scaled down or becomes pixelated when enlarged can harm your brand’s image.

5. Choose Colors Wisely

Colors have a powerful impact on how people perceive your brand. Different colors evoke different emotions and associations. For example, blue often represents trust and reliability, while red can signify passion or energy. Consider the message you want to convey and choose colors that align with your brand’s personality.

6. Typography Matters

If your logo includes text, pay attention to typography. The font you choose should complement your brand and be legible at various sizes. Custom fonts can make your logo unique, but be cautious not to make it overly complicated.

7. Test It Out

Before finalizing your logo, test it in various contexts and get feedback from trusted individuals. How does it look in black and white? Does it still convey your brand’s identity when color is removed? Testing ensures that your logo works effectively in different situations.

8. Make It Timeless

While it’s essential to be current and relevant, avoid following design trends too closely. Trends come and go, but your logo should stand the test of time. Aim for a design that remains relevant for years to come.

9. Hire a Professional

Unless you’re a skilled graphic designer, it’s best to hire a professional logo designer. They have the expertise and experience to bring your vision to life effectively. Don’t cut corners on something as crucial as your brand’s visual identity.

10. Protect Your Logo

Once your logo is designed, consider trademarking it to protect your brand identity. This legal protection ensures that others can’t use a similar logo, preventing confusion in the marketplace.

The Don’ts

1. Don’t Rush

Designing a logo is not something to be rushed. It’s a significant aspect of your brand’s identity and should be given the time and attention it deserves. Rushing the process can result in a subpar logo that doesn’t effectively represent your brand.

2. Don’t Use Clip Art or Stock Images

While it may be tempting to use clip art or stock images to save time and money, these options rarely result in a unique and memorable logo. Your logo should be one-of-a-kind and tailored specifically to your brand.

3. Avoid Overcomplicating

Complex logos with too many elements can confuse your audience and make your brand difficult to remember. Aim for simplicity, as it’s often more impactful and memorable.

4. Don’t Follow Trends Blindly

As mentioned earlier, it’s essential to be aware of design trends, but don’t follow them blindly. What’s trendy today may not be tomorrow. Your logo should reflect your brand’s identity, not just the latest fad.

5. Avoid Too Many Colors

While colors are essential, using too many can be overwhelming and make your logo less effective. Stick to a few well-chosen colors that align with your brand’s message.

6. Don’t Neglect Mobile Compatibility

In today’s mobile-centric world, your logo should look good on small screens. Ensure that your logo is mobile-friendly and doesn’t lose its impact when viewed on smartphones and tablets.

7. Don’t Ignore Feedback

While it’s important to trust your designer’s expertise, don’t ignore feedback from your team or target audience. They may notice things you haven’t and can provide valuable insights.

8. Avoid Making It Too Literal

While your logo should represent your brand, it doesn’t have to be overly literal. A restaurant logo doesn’t have to feature a plate of food, for example. Sometimes, abstract or symbolic designs can be more memorable.

9. Don’t Forget About Versatility

Your logo should work across various mediums, from digital to print. Ensure that it looks good in different contexts and is versatile enough to adapt to different marketing materials.

10. Don’t Neglect Consistency

Once your logo is finalized and in use, maintain consistency. Use it consistently across all your branding materials, from your website to your social media profiles. Inconsistency can dilute your brand’s identity.

In conclusion, designing a new logo for your business is a significant undertaking that requires careful consideration and planning. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your logo accurately represents your brand, makes a memorable impression, and stands the test of time. Remember that your logo is not just a visual element; it’s the face of your brand, and getting it right is essential for your business’s success. So, take your time, invest in a professional designer, and create a logo that will set your brand apart from the competition and leave a lasting impact on your audience.