Logo Essentials: Research Before Design
Author: Tom Ellis
Date: 29.10.23
Read time: 2-3 minutes
Effective Logo Design: Start with Key Research
Logo research isn't a fancy preliminary step; it's a pivotal one. Before you draw a single line or click in a design software, you've got questions to answer. Why? Because you're not designing a mere symbol, you're crafting an emblem for an entity's identity.
The Point of Logo Research
Jumping directly into logo design? That’s a rookie move. Without research, you’re basically shooting in the dark, risking rejection. Research isn’t about gathering data—it’s your strategy, the compass that directs your design decisions.
Questions to Prime Your Design Process:
Purpose of the New Logo: Is the company sprouting fresh roots, or is this a total rebrand? Know the ‘why’ behind the change. Whether it’s signalling new leadership, services, or reflecting an ethos shift, your design direction hinges on this.
Company’s Core: Sounds basic, right? But a deep dive into the company’s history, services, and values is vital. What’s their story? How do they want customers to feel? Unearth this, and your design will resonate deeper.
Who’s It For?: Know the audience. If the client’s unclear, steer them. Grasp the demographics—age, income, habits. A logo meant for teenagers won’t resonate with retirees.
Future Visions: Design for today, but anticipate tomorrow. What’s the company’s 5-year vision? If there’s an intent to diversify or evolve, your logo should be versatile enough to mirror that growth.
Scoping the Competition: A great design isn’t just original—it’s distinctive. Know the sector’s existing identities to ensure you’re not inadvertently mirroring a competitor. Direct and indirect competitors both matter.
Logo Research Isn’t Optional
Remember, research isn’t just a phase—it’s your foundation. It equips you to design logos that don’t just look good, but also feel right.
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