It is typical for new businesses to experience one of two things when taking on the daunting yet exhilarating task of designing a logo.  One: not having a clue where/how to begin the process, and Two: having way too many ideas, none of which really represents your brand.  If you fall into the first category, have no fear.  There are plenty of design agencies out there who can, for a minimal fee, create logos from scratch with very little guidance.  This is especially helpful if the design agency will also create your merchandise, as they know what format is ideal for different production options.

If you are part of the larger second category, we have some tips for you to avoid headaches down the line.

Tip #1:  Consider the mediums in which your logo will appear.
Different types of merchandise/signs/stationary/etc. take different kinds of artwork.  Similarly, different mediums are priced out based on various components.  For example, if your planning on producing corporate work shirts and duffle bags with your logo embroidered, you may want to consider simplicity when designing your logo.  Typically with embroidery, number of colors does not matter as much as complexity.  However, if you intend to have basic t-shirts screen printed, you can include more intricacies, but will want to limit the number of colors.  If your logo is also going to appear on a storefront window or sign, or stationary, you’ll need to consider how it will look when enlarged or shrunken.  These are all things a design agency can help you with.

Tip #2:  Pick a theme and stick with it.
Ever heard the old saying “don’t judge a book by its’ cover?”  Well any prospective consumer will undoubtedly commit this fatal flaw.  If your logo doesn’t appeal to them, chances are your product or service won’t either.  Your best bet is to use a clean, simple logo that can be easily recognized or reproduced.  If you want people to remember you – and chances are you do – you’ll stick with your business name, or a basic variation of it; The farther you stray from your original idea, the farther customers will stray from your brand.

Tip #3: Do research to ensure your idea is original.
The last thing you want to do is spend time and money creating a logo, fall in love with it, then realize another company has one almost identical.  Even if your business is developing a new-and-improved Big Mac, it’s never a good idea to use the Arches in your logo.  Differentiation is key in a crowded world of brands, and originality will distinguish you from your competition.

Check out this article from LogoDesignLove to see examples of the tragic mistake: http://www.logodesignlove.com/similar-original-logos

Whatever steps you take to developing your logo, be sure to take them slowly.  Your logo represents your brand and deserves just as much attention as the product or service you are selling.