Creating a logo is probably one of the most difficult jobs for a graphic designer because it is about creating an image for a whole company or enterprise; the graphic designer actually has the future “signature image” of the company in his hands. Logos are meant to attract more business for the company by leaving a memorable and creditable impression in the viewers mind.

Usually logos are done in vector applications such as Adobe Illustrator and Corel Draw, but it is best to start off with a simple sketch on paper before moving to the computer.

Adobe Illustrator, being a vector application, is best because the logo will always be in a file format that can easily be resized and / or integrated into virtually any online or offline application.

Logos must be designed to fit or adapt well to any surface medium without losing any of its aesthetic appeal.  Simplicity is central to the design so it is easily understood and remembered.

Some good examples of simple, functional and recognizable logos would be: the Nike “check swoosh”, the Toyota symbol, the golden arches of McDonalds and the apple from Apple Inc.

The look and feel of a logo says a lot about the company. Let’s take Toys “R” Us as an example, Toys “R” Us uses many playful colors and it also reverses the “R” giving it a childlike/playful feel.

Logos serve to establish the signature look of the company and to generate the look and feel of what the company is all about and even what the company is like to do business with.

October 22, 2009