What Makes a Good Logo?
What is a logo?
A logo is a design, graphical representation, image or symbol that represents
a business or organization. Logos were initially used to distinguish
and differentiate products, the logos assisted purchasers in finding
the product they prefer or have come to trust (or not trust). When product
selections were limited and items were marked with a logo which a consumer
was familiar they would naturally assume a certain level of quality or
value, even if they had not previously used that specific product from
that vendor. Now many companies not only have a corporate logo, but they
have a logo to represent each of their products or product lines.
The company or product logo typically appears on all printed media or
websites that are associated with the company or product. The logo appears
in all marketing material and media.
A logo is really more than just a graphic, a logo design is part of a
larger marketing concept. Marketers take specific care when selecting
a logo, and they give a lot of thought about what they want their customers
to identify with the company or product logo.
Some logos are designed around color. Studies have been conducted about
the psychology of color and how different colors evoke different emotions.
Green is used to imply wealth or expense, a marketer might use a green
logo to imply an increase in perceived value. Blue on the other hand
has a calming and soothing effect. Multiple colors can be used to accent
and highlight specific parts of the logo. Accented and highlighted colors
should be contrasting and complimentary.
Regardless of what colors you select, be sure that you use standard pantone
colors and websafe colors. Also make sure these colors can be easily
reproduced in print mediums.
Logos should be simple, and not overly elaborate or complex. Newer businesses
and technology companies should have modern logos, while long standing
businesses may want to use a logo that emphasizes their business experience.
That does not mean that an older business cannot freshen or enhance an
older logo, they may just want to retain certain qualities so their logo
is still recognizable. Rarely do business depart drastically from an
established logo. For this reason businesses should select a logo that
has longevity. Once you establish and build a strong corporate image,
you will want to retain it.
Logos should be designed so that they scale easily and can be used in
a variety of mediums: letterhead, t-shirts, and more. Always keep in
mind that logos are part of a larger marketing concept. Promotional materials
will require consistency to reinforce the company or product image.
Taglines incorporated into the logo help reinforce the underlying message
in a logo and can be an easy addition. Countless memorable marketing
campaigns over the years have associated slogans with a logo to hit a
message home.
While logos sound complex, in truth it has never been easier to locate
a logo. Professional graphic artists are abundant on the web, and can
be contracted to create a custom logo, or business owners can scroll
through thousands of logos in logo directories.
Logo Directories:
Logo Search - http://www.logo-search.com/
Logo Maid - http://www.logomaid.com/
LogoWorks - http://www.logoworks.com/
Logos are the building blocks of a company or product identity. Be sure
to take the time to find a logo that reflects the values that you, as
a business owner, want associated with your business. Find a logo that
is more than just a graphic.
Article Source: http://www.superfeature.com
About the Author: Sharon Housley manages marketing for FeedForAll www.feedforall.com software for creating, editing, publishing RSS feeds and podcasts. In addition Sharon manages marketing for RecordForAll www.recordforall.com audio recording and editing software.
