Your logo is at the frontline of your small business’s brand. As such, the design of your logo isn’t something you want to take lightly. Does your logo pass our quiz? Answer the following four questions with a “yes” or “no.”
1) Does your logo transcend time and space?
Being trendy is great but will your logo stand the test of time? It’s okay to update your logo from time to time, but a logo makeover is serious business as it affects your brand’s rapport. The Gap tried to drastically change its logo a few years ago and faced backlash as a result! McDonald’s golden arches haven’t really changed over the years and they still hold up. Furthermore, they have universal appeal across the globe. Can you say the same about your logo?
2) Does your logo avoid 50 shades of grey?
Think about where and how your logo will be used. If you’ll be screen-printing or embroidering your logo, incorporating gradients or shades might compromise the appearance of your logo, making it look unappealing and maybe even unrecognizable. If you’re creating stickers or temporary tattoos, your logo might even disintegrate or crumble. To ensure that your logo looks its best across the board, it’s wise to start designing it in monochrome, with just one colour (perhaps just black and white), and then add colours as required. That way, you’ll have a “safe” monochrome version of your logo that will be versatile no matter what medium it’s used in. You can always still go with the more colourful version when appropriate!
3) Is your logo social media-friendly?
These days, you need to consider what your logo is going to look like on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, blogs, and various other social media. If you’re using your logo as a profile icon, you want to make sure that your logo stands out and looks recognizable even when it appears very small on a computer screen or device. Furthermore, make sure it fits nicely within a square format; rectangular or “widescreen” logos tend to distort or get cut off when used as social media profile icons.
4) Does your logo meet tech spec (technical specification) requirements?
Do your logo colours look the same in various formats? Do you have a CMYK version for print versions of your logo? Do you have a web-safe RGB version? Does your logo look good at different resolutions and on various printed media? Do the edges ever look jagged or are they always smooth? This part can get a bit technical for some, in which case it’s a good idea to enlist a professional.
If you responded “yes” to all of the above, congratulations! Your logo gets an A+ from us. For help with your brand’s logo design, contact Kim Speed at Purple Moon Creative.
Need a hand with your business’ brand? Call Kim Speed at Purple Moon Creative today!