5 Principles of Good Logo Design

One question we always ask ourselves when starting a brand for a company is: What makes a good logo? Ideally, a good logo is instantly recognizable, simple in form, easy to remember, built for longevity, and able to fit different mediums of branding material. Here are some things we always keep ing mind while creating.

1. Simple

In order for a good logo design to take shape, we must take our concepts down to the simplest form. Simplicity is key and allows a logo to be easily recognized. Without simplicity, a logo cannot follow it’s other principles of memorability and versatility.

2. Memorable

To make a lasting impression, a logo has to be memorable. When the design of a logo becomes too complex you are hurting your chances of clients actually remembering who you are. The average person will only have a number of seconds to absorb your logo. Keep it simple.

3. Timeless

In the design world getting caught up in a trend can prove to be a problem when designing a logo. Focus on building a strong concept for your logo and keep away from trends. Over time trends will fade away, so will the logo. Timeless refers to no particular trend and will allow your client to enjoy its longevity, allowing your design to stay on board long-term.

When designing a logo, remember to:

• Build a strong concept
• Stay away from trends
• Design for long-term

4. Versatile

Logos are marks and shapes that represent a business. When companies market themselves they apply their logo to several different mediums such as business cards, letterheads, billboards, and advertisements  When designing a logo it’s important to consider logo size equally on a business card as on a billboard.

Can a logo be applied to various forms of size and color?

Think about:

• Printing in small and large sizes
• Can the concept be understood in one color?
• Cost of printing multiple colors

When drawing your initial sketches, keep in mind that thin lines and marks will disappear when you shrink the size of the logo. Try printing your logo in a one inch by one inch square. Are the elements visible? When presenting logo concepts to a client  try presenting a few in only black and white. Sometimes colors can obscure the clients judgement and take away from the overall concept.

5. Relevant

Does this logo fit the purpose and identity of my company? A logo much portray the company it represents through the use of shape and form. A good concept to keep in mind is smooth lines for a more youthful logo, while using straight lines for a more corporate brand. A logo’s relevance to your company is key when establishing a brand. For example a clothing company’s logo is identifiable based on the symbol and style of the type treatment. That style will not work for a food product

So, there’s an outline & guide to help you follow when starting you next new business venture! If you need our help with the design of that small business logo, or website, just give us a call (931) 221-4991, or fill out our new project form here. Until next time!