How to Create an Iconic Logo

Valuetainment
10 Oct 201713:00

TLDRIn this episode, we learn the science behind designing an iconic company logo, with insights on the five types of logos: word mark, pictorial, abstract, mascot, and emblem. The importance of avoiding trendy looks and choosing colors wisely is highlighted. The video emphasizes that a great logo is not the sole factor for success; marketing plays a crucial role. It also encourages patience, as brand recognition takes time. Finally, the video suggests considering audience feelings when designing a logo and shows that it's never too late to evolve a logo for better brand identity.

Takeaways

  • πŸ˜€ Create a logo that can represent your company well, even if it's not the sole factor in becoming a billion-dollar company.
  • πŸ”‘ Understand the five types of logos: word mark, pictorial, abstract, mascot, and emblem, each suitable for different stages and audiences.
  • πŸ‘¨β€πŸŽ¨ Consider hiring a professional designer for abstract logos due to their complexity and the importance of getting it right.
  • 🚫 Avoid trendy looks that may not stand the test of time; a logo should be timeless and represent your brand for years to come.
  • 🎨 Choose colors wisely as they evoke different emotions and should align with the brand's image and values.
  • πŸ•° Recognize that a logo is not a one-time event but requires time and consistent exposure to become recognizable and impactful.
  • πŸ’‘ Remember that marketing is crucial; a great logo alone won't make a company successful, but a well-executed marketing strategy can.
  • πŸ€” Reflect on the feelings and associations your target audience will have when they see your logo, aiming to evoke the right emotions.
  • πŸ›‘ It's never too late to evolve your logo; many companies have successfully updated their logos to better represent their brand.
  • πŸ’° Be aware of the varying costs associated with logo design, from affordable to high-priced, and what value they bring to the brand.
  • πŸ”„ Understand that logos are not homeruns but base hits; they require consistent reinforcement and visibility to be effective.

Q & A

  • What is the main topic of the video script?

    -The main topic of the video script is how to create an iconic logo for a company.

  • What are the five different types of logos mentioned in the script?

    -The five types of logos mentioned are word mark, pictorial, abstract, mascot, and emblem.

  • Why might a company choose a word mark logo?

    -A company might choose a word mark logo to help establish their brand name, especially if they are newer and want people to constantly read the name of their company.

  • What is the recommendation for designing an abstract logo?

    -The script highly recommends using a professional designer when creating an abstract logo due to its complexity and uniqueness.

  • What is the purpose of the 'Fiver Pro' initiative mentioned in the script?

    -The 'Fiver Pro' initiative by Fiverr connects businesses with top-tier professionals who have worked with major companies like Google and Nike, allowing them to design logos and other services for a broader audience.

  • Why is it important to avoid trendy looks when designing a logo?

    -Trendy looks can become outdated quickly. A logo should be timeless and represent a company for a long time, so it should not be designed to follow current trends.

  • How does the script suggest choosing colors for a logo?

    -The script suggests choosing colors wisely based on their psychological impact and the emotions they convey, such as stability, energy, trust, or creativity.

  • What is the role of marketing in relation to a company's logo?

    -Marketing is critical as it helps in establishing the logo's recognition and brand identity. A good logo with poor marketing may not be as effective as an average logo with innovative marketing.

  • Why is it said that 'logos are base hits' and not 'homeruns'?

    -Logos are considered 'base hits' because their effectiveness comes from constant exposure and recognition over time, rather than a single, dramatic impact.

  • What is the significance of evolving a company's logo over time?

    -Evolving a company's logo is significant as it allows the brand to stay current and relevant. It also shows adaptability and a commitment to improvement.

  • What are some examples given in the script of companies that evolved their logos?

    -Examples given include Pepsi, Apple, IBM, Nokia, Canon, and Kennel Club, which all evolved their logos to better represent their brand.

  • What are some interesting facts about logo costs mentioned in the script?

    -The script mentions that Twitter paid $15 for their logo, Nike's logo was designed for $35, Obama's 2008 campaign logo cost $1 million, and BBC paid Β£1.8 million for their logo.

Outlines

00:00

πŸš€ Introduction to Logo Design

The speaker introduces the topic of designing a logo for a potentially billion-dollar company. They manage expectations by stating that while a great logo is important, it is not the sole factor in achieving business success. The speaker outlines the structure of the episode and encourages viewers to interact with the content. They also promote the 'Fiverr Pro' service for professional logo design, highlighting its endorsement by renowned companies and individuals.

05:02

πŸ” Understanding Logo Types

This paragraph delves into the five primary types of logos: word marks, pictorial marks, abstract marks, mascots, and emblems. The speaker explains the circumstances in which each type is most effective, such as word marks for new companies and abstract marks for those requiring professional design assistance. The importance of color in logos is also discussed, with examples of how different colors can evoke specific emotions and brand perceptions.

10:04

🎨 The Impact of Logo Design on Brand Perception

The speaker emphasizes the importance of marketing alongside a well-designed logo, arguing that innovative marketing can often compensate for an average logo, and vice versa. They stress the significance of repetition in brand recognition, comparing logo visibility to base hits in baseball rather than home runs. The speaker encourages viewers to consider the feelings and associations that arise when they think of various well-known logos, suggesting that these reactions are what potential customers will experience with their own brand's logo.

⏳ The Evolution of Logos Over Time

In this paragraph, the speaker discusses the evolution of logos, using examples from major brands like Pepsi, Apple, IBM, Nokia, and Canon to illustrate how companies update their logos to stay current and improve brand image. They argue that it's never too late to refine a logo and suggest hiring professionals for such updates. The speaker also shares anecdotes about the costs associated with famous logos, ranging from as low as $15 for Twitter to as high as $1.8 million for the BBC, underscoring the value placed on logo design by successful companies.

Mindmap

Keywords

Iconic Logo

An 'iconic logo' refers to a distinctive and recognizable symbol that represents a company or brand. It is a key element in brand identity and is designed to be memorable and stand the test of time. In the video, the concept of an iconic logo is central to the discussion as the speaker aims to guide the audience on how to create a logo that could potentially become iconic, like those of well-known companies such as Coca-Cola, Google, and Apple.

Word Mark

A 'word mark' is a type of logo that consists solely of the name of the company written in a stylized way. It is a simple yet effective approach to branding, where the company's name becomes the central focus of the logo design. The script mentions Coca-Cola, Google, and Yahoo as examples of companies that use word marks, emphasizing the importance of the company name in brand recognition.

Pictorial

A 'pictorial' logo is one that uses a visual image or icon to represent the company or brand. These logos often incorporate a symbol or character that is associated with the company, such as Twitter's bird or Apple's apple. The video explains that pictorial logos can be effective, but they may require the company to be more established so that the audience can easily associate the image with the brand.

Abstract

An 'abstract' logo is a design that is not immediately recognizable as a representation of the company's products or services but is instead a unique and creative symbol. Brands like Nike, Pepsi, and Sprint use abstract logos. The speaker in the video advises using a professional designer for abstract logos due to their complexity and the importance of getting the design right.

Mascot

A 'mascot' is a character or figure used in a logo to represent a brand, often in a fun and engaging way. Mascots are particularly effective for brands targeting a younger audience, as they can create a sense of familiarity and friendliness. Examples given in the video include KFC's Colonel Sanders and Planters' Mr. Peanut, which are used to create a connection with the audience.

Emblem

An 'emblem' logo combines text and imagery within a single design, often enclosed in a shape or badge. Emblems are commonly used by universities, sports teams, and traditional companies. The video mentions Harvard University and Harley-Davidson as examples of brands that use emblem logos, suggesting that they convey a sense of history and prestige.

Trendy Looks

The term 'trendy looks' in the video refers to design elements or styles that are popular at a given time but may not stand the test of time. The speaker warns against creating a logo based on current trends, as they can quickly become outdated. Instead, the focus should be on creating a logo that will remain relevant and recognizable for years to come.

Color Choice

The 'color choice' in a logo is crucial as colors can evoke certain emotions and associations. The video script explains that different colors represent different feelings; for example, red is associated with energy and passion, while blue conveys stability and trust. The choice of color in a logo should reflect the brand's values and the message it wants to communicate to its audience.

Marketing

In the context of the video, 'marketing' refers to the strategies and efforts used to promote a company or brand. The speaker argues that while a great logo is important, it is the marketing that ultimately drives the success of a company. A well-designed logo can be enhanced by innovative marketing, but a poorly designed logo can be overshadowed by effective marketing strategies.

Logo Evolution

The concept of 'logo evolution' in the video refers to the process of updating or modifying a company's logo over time to reflect changes in the brand's identity or to keep up with current design trends. Examples provided in the script include the evolution of logos for Pepsi, Apple, IBM, Nokia, and Canon, demonstrating that even well-established brands periodically refresh their logos to stay current and relevant.

Highlights

The episode will teach you how to design an iconic logo for your company.

A good logo has very little to do with being a billion-dollar company.

There are five different types of logos: wordmark, pictorial, abstract, mascot, and emblem.

Wordmark logos use the company's name as the logo itself.

Pictorial logos use images like Twitter's bird or Apple's apple.

Abstract logos are unique designs like those of Nike or Pepsi.

Mascot logos are character-driven and work well for younger audiences.

Emblem logos are traditional and often used by universities or established brands.

Avoid trendy looks to ensure the logo's longevity.

Choose colors wisely as they convey different emotions and messages.

Marketing is critical and can outweigh the importance of a perfect logo.

Logos are base hits, not home runs; they require constant visibility.

Patience is key when it comes to building brand recognition with a logo.

Consider the feelings your logo will evoke when people think about your company.

It's never too late to evolve and improve your logo.

Some companies have evolved their logos significantly over time.

Twitter paid only $15 for their iconic logo.

Nike's logo was initially disliked but became iconic through consistent use.

Obama's 2008 campaign logo cost $1 million and had a controversy with Pepsi.

BBC spent 1.8 million dollars on their logo, emphasizing the importance of branding.