Design Basics – What is a Logo?

Simply put, logos are an arrangement of type or symbols that identify a business. Iconic examples include the Nike swoosh, McDonald’s golden arches, and Target’s bullseye. They are unique symbols that can be recognized in a single glance.

The goal of a logo is to set your business apart from the crowd.

Therefore, it needs to be unique and showcase the essence of your business. Easier said than done, right?!

With so much weight on a logo, every decision needs to be carefully made. From your color palette to which font you choose, each element plays a part in telling the story of your business. Is your business bright and energetic? Calm and serene? Soft and whimsical? The heart of your business will influence every detail of your logo design.

Taking the time to perfect your logo design is important since it acts as your first impression on the world. It will help solidify brand recognition, display your industry expertise, and catch the eye of new customers.

Here are a few elements that make up a well-designed logo:

1. Resonates with your target audience: A great logo isn’t something that just looks pretty. It is a design with a purpose. It needs to speak to your audience and grab their attention.
2. Simple to identify: A first impression only takes a few seconds to make. Therefore, a logo should be easy to read. If a customer has to work to figure out what your logo is, they will often give up and move on.
3. Unique: Don’t settle for the status quo! A logo is not the place to blend into the crowd. You need to visually set yourself apart from your competitors.
4. Scalable: Logos need to be visible in both large and small scales. Whether the logo is sized down for a business card or scaled up for a display banner, the logo needs to be easily identified.

If you already have a logo designed for your business, it’s good to take a step back and ask – is it working in your favor? Does your logo emit the personality of your brand? Does it look professional? Will it enable you to reach your business goals? If not, it is time to rethink your design strategy and ensure you are setting your business up for success.