A logo is more than the sum of its parts. It's not necessarily representative of the product or service that the business provides, but it is representative of the business itself. Just like a flag stands for a country, the logo stands for a business. It's supposed to represent the business itself, everything it does, and everything it stands for. A logo is kind of a big deal is what we're saying, so you want to ensure that it's a good logo. Here are 5 quick and simple tips that will help you create a good logo design.

1. Keep it simple for memorability.
2. Create a timeless design.
3. Pick appropriate typography for the brand.

Smart Logo Design 101

1)  Keep it Simple

A simple design is an easily remembered design. Something complex will be harder to remember, but something as easy as the Nike swoosh is likely to stick. Not only that, but simple designs are helpful for reasons tying into the ones below:

2) Make it Memorable

Not only should your design be simple, but it should be memorable. The end goal should be for your logo to be so recognisable, even people who aren't your customers will remember it. That might be achieved by an elegantly simple design or a clever use of colour. Or just by being so successful everyone has to sit up and pay attention.

3) Timeless Designs

Tying into the first principle of keeping your artwork simple, it should also be a timeless design. Something basic, but elegant, that could work in any situation or at any point in time. Consider the McDonald's Logos or the Coca Cola logos. While some variations may have occurred over the years due to changing styles and preferences throughout the years, the core design remains unchanged because it's already excellent.

4) Versatility Helps

Working at a promotional products company, one issue we often face is branding a particular logo onto a product that it just won't work on. Your logo should ideally be able to fit on any product at any scale. It should look just as good on a large surface such as promotional beach towels, as it does on a small surface such as the side of customised pencils.

5) Make Sure It's Appropriate

Just because you approve your design doesn't mean you should charge on ahead. Have other people look over your design and double check it. They may discover or see something that you missed that could turn your logo into a bit of a joke. Look at the instagram logo, I didn't see it, but apparently some saw a washing machine instead of a camera.

Bonus: Typography in Logo Design

Typography is another crucial element of logo design that can greatly impact how your brand is perceived. The choice of font can communicate your brand's personality, professionalism, and overall aesthetic. Here are some important considerations when it comes to typography in logo design:

• Serif vs. Sans Serif: Serif fonts are characterised by small decorative lines or features at the end of strokes, while sans serif fonts lack these embellishments. Serif fonts are often associated with tradition, elegance, and professionalism, making them suitable for more classic and established brands. On the other hand, sans serif fonts are often seen as modern, minimalistic, and clean, making them a popular choice for startups and tech companies.
• Typeface Legibility: It's important to choose a font that is easily readable, especially when it comes to displaying your logo at smaller sizes or from a distance. Avoid overly decorative or elaborate fonts that may hinder legibility.
• Custom Fonts: Creating a unique and custom font for your logo can help differentiate your brand from competitors and create a distinct visual identity. However, it's important to ensure that the custom font is still legible and aligned with your brand values.

Ultimately, the typography in your logo should reflect your brand's personality and create a cohesive visual identity. Experiment with different fonts, sizes, and styles to find the perfect typography that aligns with your brand.

Takeaway

So now you know what it takes to create a good logo design. A logo is the face of your business and it's important to get it right. By keeping it simple, memorable, timeless, and versatile, you can ensure that your logo will be effective and long-lasting. Choosing the right typography is also crucial and can greatly impact how your brand is perceived. Whether you opt for a serif or sans-serif font, make sure it's legible and reflects your brand's personality and values. So take these tips on board and create a logo that truly represents your business.

Originally seen on: https://medium.com/@pixelslogodesign/5-principles-of-designing-a-good-company-logo-a75cec53a773#.vsttj7g3r