The design of your logo is a very important part of your corporate identity. Here are some logo design guidelines to consider when designing your logo.

Creating a logo is an exciting step when it comes to starting your own company and website. This little logo is going to be how the world identifies your brand and company. Designing an original but simple logo will set you in stead. Here are some helpful logo design guidelines to consider when creating your logo. It is important to note that your logo is a big part of your corporate identity.

What is a Logo?
Before you can get started on creating a memorable logo, you will first need to become familiar with exactly what logos are and what they entail. A logo is a name, illustration, image, symbol or trademark of a company. A logo can be a combination of these, but remember a logo should be used to project the company's image. Logos are easier to remember than using just a single word or phrase.

 Logo Design Guidelines
1. Type Of Company
When designing your logo, it is important to note that you need to consider what your company does and to endure that the logo matches the message you are trying to convey. If you have a company that is very corporate and formal, you will need a more professional and simple logo that indicates the type of company. For the more professional feel, use colours like navy, olive green, mustard, teal and maroon. These logos often contain only a single bolded word with very little fancy design.

If your company is arty in nature you might consider using a funkier logo design. This can include abstract and contemporary shapes and symbols. Whereas if the logo was directed at children, it would be more fun, interesting and colourful. It is important that you consider whether or not your logo design is appropriate for the purpose, corporate identity and image of your company.

2. Keep Your Logo Design Simple
Simpler designs are easier to remember. Keeping your logo design simple will ensure that the logo is more recognisable, without having the name and slogan present. This is true for the "Nike" and "McDonalds" brands.  The design of your logo should also be kept simple to ensure that the logo is versatile and can be resized and viewed properly on a number of different surfaces.

3. Unique Logos
Your logo should draw your clients to your company. They should see your logo and immediately identify it with your company and the services you offer. The design of your logo should allow you to stand out in a competitive field.  It is important that you avoid using the more common types of fonts, colour schemes and designs. Do some research to see how your competitors have designed their logos, this way you will know what works and what designs have been used and which ones have become tired. You will also be able to decide on your likes and dislikes. Avoid using clipart, it might appear amateurish and may be similar to one of your competitors. Be imaginative when designing your logo, it needs to be memorable, special and one of a kind.

4. The Font and Message Should Be Legible
There are a number of different font styles and designs to choose from. However, it is important that the font you decide on is appropriate for the type of company and that it offers a specific character and image. The font design should be readable and not too small or fancy. You should be able to read the message no matter how it has been resized.

5. Your Logo in Black and White
There might be a time where your logo can only be viewed in black and white; an example of this is when a fax is sent. It is important that your logo is visible and legible in black and white.

6. Colourful Logos
If there are too many colours included in the logo, it can make it look over the top. It can also increase the cost of printing expenses when it comes to printing different merchandise.

7. Taglines are Important
Creating a catchy and clever tagline can help to promote your business and add a little extra to your logo. The slogan will also help to create a personality for your business as well as tell your potential clients exactly what you are all about.

8. Logos Should:
Have good scanablity

• Be visible and clear on different resolutions and screens
• Be simple and legible
• Communicate your message, identity and products
• Have minimal colour
• Avoid photographs
• Avoid complicated images 

Different Types of Logos
1. Text Logos
These logos only have a creative font with the name of the company. Fonts can be used to create a strong graphic. An example of this type of logo includes Sony.

2. Images Logo
These types of logos have a symbol or image that will be identified by the public. Examples include the Colonel Sanders on the "KFC" logo and the apple for "Macintosh" Computers.  An image logo can create a strong sense of branding.

3. Text and Logo
This is when the text and branding image are placed together. These include Puma and LG.

Logo Guidelines
Logos are an important part of forming your corporate identity. It is important that your logo is unique and memorable. Follow these guidelines and you will be sure to have a special logo you can be proud of. Let us help you create the perfect logo, by calling +27 (11) 463 2040.