DESIGN

Vol.11

author

Designer

Y.T.

Three Things to Keep in Mind in Logo Design

#design#font#logo#branding
Last update : 2026.5.11
Posted : 2015.1.16
Today, I’d like to talk about logos from the perspective of a graphic designer.
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1. Brand and Logo Mark

In the branding work we engage in every day, we often define and create logo marks and symbol marks as visual expressions.
A logo mark is an essential part of brand identity.
Even though logos may appear to be simple graphic design at first glance, they must visually encapsulate the brand message of a company, product, or service. That’s why deep knowledge and understanding of the brand are essential in the design process. To create a vivid identity that remains in consumers’ memories, it is necessary to use the logo mark as a design element and adapt it across various applications.
Today, I’d like to introduce three useful points to keep in mind when creating a logo.

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2. What’s the Difference Between a Brand and a Logo?

A Logo Is a Visual Representation of a Brand

According to Daijirin, it is defined as “a design created by combining a logotype and a mark in order to leave an impression of a company or brand image.”
A logo is a visual expression of a brand, and it shapes how the brand is perceived.
A brand, on the other hand, is something that is built through all points of contact with consumers, including—but not limited to—the logo.

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3. Think About How to Handle Color

First, create the logo without adding color

First, let’s create the logo without thinking about color. In some situations where the logo is used, it may need to be displayed in monochrome due to color restrictions.
Even if the design includes color, it must still remain consistent as the same brand identity in a limited monochrome version from white to black. In other words, it needs to maintain its identity regardless of color.

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4. Form and Structure

In order to design a logo that leaves a strong impression on users

To create a logo that makes an impact, first design it with the goal of being instantly recognizable as a logo. Many logos are composed within overall shapes such as circles or squares.
In terms of structure, focus on creating a sense of comfort and memorability.
Memorable logos often use symmetry or patterns to introduce a sense of movement.
It’s also a good idea to study logos you find effective and analyze the rules and principles behind how they were designed, using the perspectives mentioned above as a guide.

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5. Logos Using Typography

Wordmark

A wordmark is a logo expressed using typography.
By using text, it can communicate more directly and clearly than a purely visual symbol.
However, it is often better to design a text-based logo last, or to consider it depending on the situation.
If competitors are using wordmarks, it may be preferable for us not to use a wordmark in order to clearly differentiate ourselves.

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Summary

Logos that Tell a Story

How did you find these tips on logo design?
Finally, one more point about logos:
A logo is the beginning of a brand story. It should tell how compelling and meaningful the brand is through its design.
I hope this article has been even a little helpful in creating better logo designs.

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