Multi-colored, overly complex logos are a graphic designer’s worst nightmare. They’re distracting and confusing. Plus, they look bad. Keep it simple instead. Think visual tweet.  

Consider Nike’s swoosh, for example. It’s one of the most recognizable logos in the world. In fact, it’s screen-printed on millions of products and adorned by thousands of athletes across the globe. By focusing on one simple idea, Nike sidesteps the confusion and clutter that bogs many logos down.

Check out the history behind the Nike Swoosh here

And you can too. But first...

To benefit, you must shift your thinking about the purpose of logos in general. You must accept that your logo is not your brand. It’s simply an extension of it. A beacon if you will. Your call to action among millions of other competing calls-to-action.

To help, we’ve put together a short list of things to consider before embarking on the amazing, yet satisfying, journey called logo creation. Here they are:

Reason #1 - Simple logos are easier to remember

They’re compelling, they stand alone, and they make really strong first impressions. You can point them out with accuracy from almost anywhere. They catch your eye and keep it. And they’re all elements you need to develop a memorable inroad into your prospects life.

Effective logos strike an emotional chord - one that spurs you to wonder or to dream or to think bigger. It’s not about the logo itself. It’s more about what’s possible for me if I choose to buy your brand. In fact, your logo is a glimpse into your values and belief systems. Beliefs that either inspire action or encourage indifference. 

Reason #2 – Simple logos add value and strengthen your message

Well-made logos convey a sense of balance. They use clean lines, universal shapes, and attractive color schemes to draw you in. In essence, they add value simply by being simple.

With simple logos, you understand at once exactly what the intended message is. And you’re able to form a quick impression about the quality of products and services being provided. That way you’re not wasting your time figuring it out.

But when your logo is cluttered, you weaken your message. Instead, strengthen it with clarity. Say more with less. Get to the point. Make it easy to do business with you.   

Reason #3 – Simple logos are more versatile and easier to reproduce

The best logos are scalable both big and small, representing your brand equally well on all platforms. They can be used in a variety of different media including print, web, embroidery, and screen printing.

By creating and finishing your logo in one- or two-color format (instead of 3+ colors), you:

This way your logo looks great on anything from pens to billboards, websites to business cards, cups to window graphics. The possibilities are endless. Plus, you wind up with a really cool logo to boot.

These are only a few of the things you can do today to improve your current logo or to develop one from scratch. Questions? Ideas? Contact our design team.