How to Design the Perfect Business Logo
Create a Powerful Logo for Business
Any designer knows creating a logo from scratch can be a challenge. It takes patience, skill, and a few mistakes before you finally get the look you want.
That said, there are ways to make logo design easier. If you study successful logos, you’ll notice they all have certain traits in common, even though their styles vary.
I recently found a design blog that not only describes these traits but also distills them into helpful “do” and “don’t” examples (thanks, Company Folders!) Here are the seven traits of good logos:
One: Good logos are enticing. The designer doesn’t just create a logo that represents the brand; they take it a step farther with a logo that makes the audience want to interact with the company.
Two: Uniqueness is a vital piece of the logo puzzle. Some logos are cliché, like a paw print for a pet grooming service. These designs may be popular, but you’re more likely to succeed when you try something new and outstanding.
Three: A timeless logo that’s lasted decades with minimal revisions is doing something right. You’ll find these logos aren’t just made of trendy elements. They have classic roots that help them engage audiences for years to come.
Four: Chasing trends is a quick way to ruin a design. But you still can (and should) work to make your logo new, so it’s interesting and shows that your client is forward-thinking.
Five: Good logos are simple, conveying one consistent message. You’ll help your client decide what that message should be. Then remove any part of the logo that doesn’t contribute to it.
Six: Consistency comes across in design choices. For instance, a warm, friendly brand could have a round logo, since that’s a “welcoming” shape. Think of how shapes, symbols, and other design elements impact your client’s brand message.
Seven: Logos aren’t single-use items. They appear on websites, print marketing materials, signage, and promotional products. Thus, your logo has to look just as good in grayscale as color, and be as readable in small sizes as large print.
Have a logo design story or lesson learned? Let me know, I’d love to hear it in the comments.
