Logo Design

How do you define a Logo Design

A logo is a graphical element, symbol, or icon that, together with its logotype (which is set in a unique typeface or arranged in a particular way) form a trademark or brand.

A typical logo is designed to cause immediate recognition by the viewer. The logo is one aspect of the brand of a company or economic entity, and the shapes, colors, fonts and images are usually different from others in a similar market. Logos may also be used to identify organizations or other entities in non-economic contexts.

Logo design is commonly believed to be one of the most important areas in graphic design, thus making it the most difficult to perfect. The logo, or brand, is not just an image, it is the embodiment of an organization. Because logos are meant to represent companies and foster recognition by consumers it is counterproductive to redesign logos often.
A fictitious logo with a small color range and recognizable design relating to the fictitious company.

A fictitious logo with a small color range and recognizable design relating to the fictitious company.

Logo Design Tips

When designing (or commissioning) a logo, practices to encourage are to

* avoid being over-the-top in an attempt to be unique
* use few colors, or try to limit colors to spot colors (a term used in the printing industry)
* avoid gradients (smooth color transitions) as a distinguishing feature
* produce alternatives for different contexts
* design using vector graphics, so the logo can be resized without loss of fidelity
* be aware of design or trademark infringements
* include guidelines on the position on a page and white space around the logo
* do not use a specific choice clip-art as a distinguishing feature
* do not use the face of a (living) person
* do not use photography or complex imagery as it reduces the instant recognition a logo demands
* avoid culturally sensitive imagery, such as religious icons or national flags, unless the brand is committed to being associated with any and all connotations such imagery may evoke.