What Makes a Good Logo?

Arlene Schneider
If you have a business, you are going to want a logo. A logo is a small graphical design that labels or brands you. It is something that is associated with your business and something your business will be known by. You can have logos designed by an online service. There is also software that will help you design a logo. Your local art school may be able to design you a logo for a small fee. If you are imaginative, you may want to use your favorite graphic design program and give it a try on your own. Whatever method you choose to create your logo, there are few suggestions you should follow.

Make your logo unique. If your logo resembles someone else's, you may possibly lose clients through the confusion. It is unprofessional to have a logo that mimics someone else's, not to mention the possible legal ramifications.

Select a design that will stand the test of time. People tend to lean towards the latest trends. At the time they look great and are hot, but what happens two years down the road when a new trend has emerged. Design a logo that will have the appeal ten years from now that it has currently.

Avoid all the fancy techniques available in graphics design software. If you want to put your logo on clothes, for example; how are you going to incorporate that shadow on your logo onto clothes? In the end you will be glad you stuck to the basics. Make sure your logo can be adapted to many surfaces and you will also want a grayscale version for publishing in black and white.

Another reason for keeping your logo simple is so that it will show up when it is scaled down. Scaling down will be necessary and if it has too many details all that will be lost as the size of your logo is reduced.

Color should never be a priority. Unless there is contrast they may all blend together as the logo is reduced. The colors you choose should fit in with your businesses image.

It is best to choose dimensions that are similar. You don't want something that is too wide or too tall. You are looking for something that is close to square.Using a logo is a good way to brand your company and be recognized. Certain things will enhance your logo and other design techniques will detract from the look of your logo. If your logo is being designed by a professional, listen to their suggestions and if you are going to try designing your own logo, these suggestions will get you started.

Published by Arlene Schneider

I work full time, am married and have one teenage son.  View profile

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