If you want a logo that effectively demonstrates the essence of your business, this is a great place to start. Logos, in one form or another, have been around for thousands of years. As businesses and brands have evolved so have logos. In our current business environment it is essential to have a solid, exquisitely designed identity (or logo).

In order to facilitate the process of designing your exceptional logo, we’ve developed a few tips to help you start brainstorming. When you are ready to have your logo/identity designed you will be adequately prepared. The decisions you make here will help us capture your philosophies and translate them into an identity/logo that you will be thrilled with.

• Decide who your target audience is. Really try to nail down who your “ideal” client or customer is. Many business owners, when asked who their target audience is, say “anyone” or some other broad description. This is their first mistake. Even a company with as wide a reach as Coca Cola can’t make that kind of claim. So, decide who your target audience is by answering two questions: Who do you WANT to work with or sell to? What kind of people/businesses are attracted to your service or product? Think age, gender, location, income level, education level, special interests…
• Decide what message you’d like your company’s identity/logo to convey. Do you need a logo that displays your casual nature or fun of your products or do you want your logo to represent solidarity or trust or perhaps, flexibility? Think about your marketing message.
• Is there a special inspiration or philosophy that helps give an insight into how you do business? This may come from a personal experience or preferences or possibly a mission statement. Do you want your logo to express any of these elements?
• Take note of your preferences. Start keeping an eye out for the logos all around and also in your specific industry. Take note of the ones you like and those you don’t and why. Some elements to make a note of are: colors, form, simplicity, smooth lines, images, rough edges, etc. Are there specific colors, styles you like or definitely want to stay away from?
• Notice your competitors. As you look at their identities/logos and graphical communications, take note of what you like and dislike. What do you think works well for them? Is there something your designer could do better? This step also helps you avoid a logo that would be too similar to your competitors.
• Last, but not least, come up with 5-10 quick words and/or phrases that describe your business or product(s).

We hope that these tips are a good starting point for you. Congratulations, you’re on the road to an effective logo/identity that portrays your company’s image.

If you follow these steps, before having your logo designed, you will probably find that the results will exceed your expectations. Have fun and let us know when you’re ready to have your logo designed.