How to Design a Winning Logo?

Updated: July 08, 2010

What is a Logo?

• Visually represents you.
• Part of your brand.
• Unique as a face.

What a Logo is NOT?

• Not your marketing gimmick.
• Not cast in stone, it can and should be changed.
• Not your business quick-fix. It will not fix your low profit margins.

What elements make a good logo?

• Simplicity.
• Recognizable.
• Reflective of your values.

What should you DO when designing a logo?

• Make a list of "Positives" that your logo can have, as well as a list of "Negatives" to avoid.
• Research your industry. Look at the symbols, colors, fonts your competitors use. Figure out if you should follow them or go out on your own.
• Hire a professional graphic designer/firm.
• Think of your entire corporate brand and image. Now is a good time to invest thought into it.

What NOT to do?

• Don't DIY logos - very tempting but the let the professionals handle it.
• Don't use stock photography or templates, etc. You want it to be unique.
• Don't go Cheap - a good logo is worth the investment.
• Stay away from raster images. Make it all vector.