Creative Logo Design

Types of logo design

A logo is a symbol or emblem that acts as a trademark or a means of identification of an institution or other entity. Typically, a logo design is for immediate recognition and serves as an identifier for a certain company or organization.

There are three basic types of logo design: wordmark, brandmark and combination. These design types have their advantages and disadvantages related with the marketing area they are developed for. Knowing the pros and cons of each type will help you choose the appropriate type for your logo design.

Wordmark

This type of logo design is the simplest among the three types yet good memory triggers that’s why it the most widely used. The wordmark is composed of text and typeface but can be incorporated with other elements as well. The illustration ofthe word effectively becomes a symbol of the company or organization.

The types of fonts used in the logo design convey different impression upon your intended audience. Thick fonts entail strength and power. Script fonts entail a sense of formality and finesse whereas slanted type fonts convey a sense of motion or movement. Wordmark logo design can also include hand-drawn letters, characters or symbols that have been portrayed in such a way as to fascinate the eye and catch interest.

A wordmark is suitable for companies or organizations whose name actually describes what they do example GH Office Depot or ACE hardware. In the absence of graphical elements to convey that message, a literal interpretation of the words is often necessary. It is a big challenge for the logo designer on how it will successfully build a lasting image for the company or organization it represents because it relies solely on the texts and colors.

Advantages:

• This design type is easy to remember.
• It feels clean and strong and the design can last a lifetime.
• Usually low cost to print.
• Last a lifetime.

Disadvantages:

• This design type won’t work for your business if your business name does not describe what you do.
• If your business name is too long, you’ll have a hard time placing it in a business card and to make it readable.

Brandmark

Brandmark logotype is simply a symbol. It is consists of symbols, images and shapes. It is a simple but strong graphic symbol, often abstract, that conveys a literal or abstract representation of your organization. People recognize the logo or symbol even without the name of the company or organization. Brandmark logos may be considered as the most effective in creating an impact and easy recall to its viewers.

Although this logotype is the most common, it is also the most difficult to design. It includes abstract concepts and ideas that make it more complex to design. The challenge is having a complex idea converted and translated into its simplest form.

Advantages:

• Easy to print and to brand the business. Works well even at smaller sizes.
• Good memory trigger.
• Works well on businesses having a very long name.

Disadvantages:

• Can go out of fashion very easily.
• It requires an expertise of a professional because of design complexities.
• You have to teach the public what the symbol means.

Combination

This logotype is a combination of wordmark and brandmark types. It refers to a simplified graphics combined with text or letters that represents the company. It is eye catching and holds the visual attention of consumers having the two elements of a symbol and texts. It is the most cost-effective and very ideal for start-ups or small businesses with limited marketing funds.

Designing this kind of logotype would take much time. Slogans, graphics, as well as the right color combination, must be seriously regarded.

Advantages:

• It takes less marketing to convey the message.
• It is both visually strong and self explanatory.
• Combination logos are easier to copyright and protect.

Disadvantages:

• It requires an expertise of a professional logo designer.
• Cost high to print.