An excellent logo design can be the wind beneath your brand’s wings. If done right, logos have the ability to become iconic symbols in the culture. Mix a memorable design with a strong product and you have yourself a legendary combination in the likes of Coca-Cola or Nike.
A specific design can act more than just a reminder. According to studies, the emblem can even go so far as to establish trustworthiness with your client. What works well is not exactly a single cut pathway, as the surveys show that the factors will differ in each industry. That is why designing a logo requires a thought-out plan that takes into account what your competition is doing, what the trends are, what your unique voice is, and what is best to be avoided. A modern logo design also has to consider what the general stylistic consensus is at a given time; this can make your company look relevant. However, it does not mean you have to succumb to logo design trends — classic alternatives may suit your company, all depending on the product.
Getting a general idea of what makes sense for your brand should start with knowing what the common logo design mistakes are. There are some pitfalls that should be avoided, and we are here to tell you about them.
1. Overly Complex Designs
Complex logos can look heavy on the eyes, and they are much harder to remember. What you want is something catchy, light, and snappy. The simpler the design, the easier it is for it to become memorable. Many people even think that a simple design can better get through to a person’s subconscious. A concise, yet beautiful design will look classy. Too many words or too large a logo will usually not be in your favor.
2. Using a Multitude of Fonts
That is one of the golden rules in professional logo design — do not use multiple fonts. It looks tacky and cheap. You want your shot at sending out a visual statement to be well-formed. That means it has to be a united element. The font, as well as the design, should speak one language. Multiple fonts inherently introduce a visual dissonance. There is always room for creativity and experimentation, but not in terms of the number of fonts used.
3. Being Cheap
Your logo is your brand’s visual passport to the world. It is not the place you should save money. There are always exceptions to the rule, but the differences between an amateur designer and a pro are not trivial. As they say, the devil is in the details. If you aim for something iconic, chances are that you will not get the results you desire on a cheap hiring platform. It might do, but you should aim to achieve visual excellence. Always research the previous works of a given artist and see what they have to offer. Compare cheaper and more expensive alternatives, but don’t expect a bargain for something outstanding.
4. Following Trends Blindly
It is important to understand the visual language of a certain time. However, trends come and go. Classic logos stand their ground regardless. Depending on your audience and on your product, you could make a compromise. Lean into what is fashionable if it makes sense for your brand, but aim for something that can stand the test of time.
5. Picking Too Many Colors
Picking the right colors for your business’s logo design is of vital importance. Colors are known to influence people on a subconscious level. Branding and advertisement can take advantage of this when it comes to presenting ideas in a preferable light. Choosing too many colors for your logo can dilute the effect it aims to achieve. Depending on how you want to come across, pick the colors that represent the identity accurately. The right color scheme will also depend on what kind of audience you want to appeal to.
6. Skipping Market Research
Your logo should be designed in a way that communicates your identity, as well as your product. Your logo designer should know what your brand’s target audience is, as well as what appeals to it. That requires thorough market research before you even start conceiving your design. To establish a relationship with your clients through visual means, you must know who they are.
7. Leaving It Too Bland
There is a fine line between making a logo classy, and being too bland. A bland logo does not speak to the customer, and it does not evoke any emotions. Avoid playing it too safe if you want to make your logo memorable. You do not have to go off the rails with the design, but even small outstanding details can distinguish your mark.
8. Making It Inflexible
Ideally, you want a logo design that stands well on its own but is also flexible enough for design updates. It is great when you can alter the themes of your design whenever there is an occasion. That could be to mark a holiday, a promotion, or anything else. Keeping the design skeleton intact will act as a visual anchor. Keep this in mind when discussing logo ideas with your designer.
9. Crafting Details That Are Too Small
If something on your design is too small to be read, then it is just wasting real estate in your logo. The message should either perform a function or not be there at all. Ask yourself whether your target audience will be able to distinguish all the details of your logo. That is especially pertinent if you want to appeal to an older audience.
10. Being Offensive
Never make an offensive logo. Being edgy is one thing, but if it is even slightly crossing the line of being offensive, then it is not worth the risk. You do not want to fall prey to this pitfall simply because you wanted to stand out. Your logo will represent your company values, thus anything controversial should be avoided at all costs.
Charting the Path to Proper Logo Design
Hopefully, these tips on what to avoid will set you on the right path to creating an excellent logo. Once you’ve got your market research done, your limit is the sky. Egyptian hieroglyphs managed to communicate entire concepts in what can be seen as logos. The right icon for your business is a powerful tool, so be wise with it.
We would love to hear your thoughts on what makes a great logo in your opinion. Connect with us on Facebook or Twitter and let us know what you think!
