9 Tips for Choosing a Logo

* Keep it simple

The most Disastrous logos are ones that try to say too much about the company.

* Eye catching

A successful logo should be iconic and memorable , encapsulate the traditions, the reality and the aspirations of any organisation.

* Love it or lose it.

You will be looking at this logo every day for the foreseeable future, so pick something you will like tomorrow, next year, and on the tenth anniversary of your business.

* Perfect big or small.

Your logo may be reduced, enlarged, colourized, or printed in black and white over the course of your business, so make sure the logo you pick will look perfect in any incarnation.

* Make sure the dress fits the occasion.

Your logo will give people the first impression of you and your business, so make sure it reflects your identity, tone, and service.

* Colours are key.

Choose colours (black and white counts) that reflect your corporate identity and appeal to your potential customers and clients. Colours match certain industries so get hold of a professional

to find out what colours will represent your company well.

* Don't choose the wrong icon.

A great logo should express the spirit of the business or individual. Don't fall in love with a logo that you know is not right for the services or products you are selling.

* Versatility is key.

Your logo must look good on a variety of promotional materials, including letterhead, business cards, signs, stickers, magnets, or even a web site, so make sure it is versatile. Also, be sure it will show up when faxed or photocopied.

* Get feedback.

Show your logo to respected friends, family members, and acquaintances. If they don't respond positively, ask them why. Ask what the logo "says" to them. If it's what you want people to say about your company, you could be on the right track.

P.J. Wolosaczonek, M.A. of Product and Graphic Design, Academy of Fine Arts, Wroclaw, Poland
founder of: websitedesignwimbledon.com  - web design studio based in Wimbledon, London