I’ve been putting together some materials recently that have included several logos, and it’s interesting how some of them really stand out, and others sort of disappear into the background. It’s especially obvious when they are reduced to fit a small space. Logos with lots of words or straplines don’t fare well, and those with a big graphic image and small text struggle too.
Another consideration is how easily they can be made to fit a square … most of the social media profiles are square and it’s very difficult to make a long rectangle legible in a small, square space.
If you’re redesigning your logo follow these tips:
- Check out other logos. Do you want an icon? Words? A combination of both?
- Is there a strapline? If so, does the logo rely on it or does it work equally well without it?
- Make sure it scales down (and up) well, so it works at different sizes
- Look at it in the context of other logos at the same size – does it get lost?
- Does it work in a square format? You may need to have 2 versions
- Do the colours work on both dark and light backgrounds? Do you need a ‘reversed out’ option?
- If you are going to have different versions, make sure they are readily identified with each other and consistent so that they are easily recognised
And finally …
Make sure you get it professionally produced by a graphic designer. It should look sharp and clear, and work equally well in print as it does online. There is a very noticeable difference between a DIY logo and a well-crafted one. This investment is definitely one worth making as your logo literally represents your business.