Saturday, June 20, 2009

5 Questions To Ask Before Picking A Logo

By Riche Goldmann

Some decisions you only get to make once, but they will affect you for the rest of your life, or at least the rest of the time you are in business. The best example of this kind of decision is the choice of name and logo for a business. Both are really important and can determine the direction in which your business will go. Here are 5 important points to consider when choosing a logo.

Does the logo reflect the image you want your business to have? A logo can say a lot of different things about your business, but you want it to say all the things that you are trying to convey; you want it to send the right message to potential clients. The tone of your logo should be reflective of the tone of your business. If you are in the cake decorating business, for example, you may want a logo that's fun and artsy or extremely elegant. On the other hand, if you are in the business of law, you definitely want a more serious and confidence inspiring logo.

Is the logo similar to anyone else's? You want to be sure that your logo is distinct, one of a kind, and unique among other previously discussed characteristics. This is important primarily because you don't want anyone to confuse your product, service, or company with anyone else's. But secondarily, you don't want to get sued because of any copyright or trademark infringement on your part. It doesn't help you financially to be sued or to look like someone else.

Will it stand the test of time? Once your business identity is solidified and your logo becomes recognized by consumers, the last thing you want to do is change or modify it. That can cause confusion, loss of customers or market base, or even the impression that a new business has replaced you in your location! Be careful to choose a logo that will stand the test of time, even as your business evolves.

Does your logo stand out in the crowd? Your logo is going to be included and printed on various mediums including promotional items, marketing pieces, print products, signs, billboards, magazines, online websites, and various other venues. Moreover, it will be on display for old, new, and potential clients to see. You want to make sure that when they see it, even at a distance; they recognize it and identify it as belonging to your company. This makes s a huge difference and keeps your company in the customers mind.

Finally, do you like your logo? Do you like the colors and graphics included in your logo or in a potential logo? Is it something that you can live with for a long time? Are you 100% satisfied? Will it look good no matter where you place it, be it on a billboard or on a business card? If your answer is yes to all of these and the logo meets the criteria from above, then you may have just found your logo. But sleep on it just to make sure that you really are ready to commit.

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