What is a logo, exactly, and why should your business care? Step into Logo 101 as we explain the importance of a stunning logo and how to achieve it.
Target, Apple, IBM, I Love New York.
What do all these things have in common? The logos are part of our culture and are a way of life. They influence our decisions, represent a company and are full of meaning.
But what’s the honest purpose of a logo?
Let’s dive into what is a logo and how to make a standout one for your business.
What Is a Logo?
It’s identification.
When you see the Golden Arches, that’s McDonald’s. You see a nautical green character of the sea on a coffee cup, that’s Starbucks.
No matter what designs and techniques come out in the future, the goal of a logo will never change. It will continue to identify a person, product, or business.
Yet, there’s a debate that logo design is not art. People mistake logos for art when they’re a visual object.
Think about it, designers aren’t trying to make a Picasso-type logo. They’re creating a strategic business tool that will allow people to identify a company.
Make a Great First Impression
Your logo is the first introduction to people. While this is not the only factor for potential customers to consider, it’s an invitation to learn more.
Well-designed logos intrigue customers, leaving them curious about what exactly your business offers.
Iconic & Memorable
A logo is crisp and memorable. Bad logos confuse people, are bright and loud. They don’t make sense and fit the quality of the brand.
Don’t let this happen to your business logo. Take time to sketch out. Play with different fonts and colors.
Communicate Your Business Values
The purpose of a logo is to communicate to people about your company’s background and the mission. They want to know about you.
Is there your first time owning a business? Is it a family business?
Being an entrepreneur is a rewarding experience, but it’s also exhausting. Not only are you trying to create the perfect logo, but you’re trying to balance your home work-life.
Keep It Simple
The easier it is for people to process things, the more they like it. Don’t go overboard on colors.
Coca-Cola’s red and white, IKEA’s blue and yellow. Play around and create a logo online to see what you’re liking.
Test the Market
Before you go print a bunch of business cards with your business logo on them, test it out. Do market research.
Use Amazon’s Mechanical Turk to create a survey and ask people what they think. The point is not to assume your logo is the greatest thing since sliced bread.
Feedback is important and who knows, someone might give you the perfect design idea that you never thought of.
What Is a Logo Wrapup
Now that you know what is a logo and what it takes to make an impact on the world, it’s time to design one.
Ask yourself, what is the message you’re sending? What is your business about?
If you need more guidance for your startup company, we’ve got a ton of resourceful information on our blog. You’ll be up and running in no time!
