The logo is the face of your brand. It's one of the most distinguishable elements of your identity. That's why you have to put considerable time into the design process.

But don't rush into looking at logo design ideas for inspiration! Instead, let's focus on making sure you nail it right away.

We know you're excited to bring your idea to life. But first, here are a few considerations in making a logo:

1. The Central Concept of the Design
You can only create an impact if it can deliver its message effectively. What does your brand represent? What values do you uphold?

Therefore, you need to have a fully-developed brand identity. Anything short of that, and the two may end up becoming misaligned.

As for the concept, think of what would represent what you want. Just don't make the mistake of interpreting it very literally. For example, you don't have to incorporate a pen or paper if you offer writing services.

2. Successful Samples from Competitors
It's never a good idea to steal concepts. Not only can it put you in hot water, but it's also impractical. People have already associated it with the competitor, so yours would just look like a knock-off.

But by at least checking them out, you'll be able to draw inspiration. You'll be able to think about what made the competitors successful. That way, you can replicate the thinking behind the logo.

3. What It Would Look Like on Various Media
When thinking of how to make a good logo, consider how usable it actually is. Although it's a work of art in itself, it still should be able to complement all marketing materials that you would produce.

For example, what looks okay on a business card may look terrible on a webpage. That's why it's a universal rule that it should work well with everything.

Normally, this means not using too many colors. Designers also usually avoid intricately small details that may get lost when there's a loud backdrop.

4. Breaking the Rules
Don't be afraid to go outside what's conventional. Once you're familiar with the fundamentals of creating a brand logo, you can now go against them.

Don't be afraid to trust your creative instinct. With the right combination of elements, it can pay off greatly. But no matter what it ends up looking like, it should be tied to your brand identity.

5. Existing Trends
We want you to know what designs look “cool” now. You are probably tempted to imitate some of the concepts or at least draw inspiration from them. But unless you plan to be out of business in a few years, please reconsider.

Trends are nothing more than a passing fancy. Think of it as how we now see massive shoulder pads on women's clothing. Some old trends may have been reborn, but most of them have become part of a shameful past.

There's nothing wrong with making some modifications based on trends. However, it shouldn't be the only basis.

So instead, go for something timeless. Consider Apple. Theirs remained virtually unchanged since 1977. Extremely minor modifications were done, but its purpose was to give a fresh look rather than a complete overhaul.

6. Making It in Black and White
You don't have to use these colors if you don't want to. The first purpose of making it this way is to keep your focus on the concept. Just like how you draw first before you fill in the colors, assuming a black and white sketch as part of the process keeps you from being overwhelmed.

Choosing a color palette is a very complicated process. So by trying to make your brain work on two things at once, you may take a longer time to complete the project.

7. Examining Scalability
Your logo must look good in various sizes and dimensions. You might think of it as that small icon beside your business name. After all, you don't plan on making custom pens with your business name on them.

So what's the point of thinking about scalability? The truth is, you'll never know what direction your business growth will take you. You have to be prepared.

The last thing you want to do is do a rebrand at a crucial stage of growth.

Remember, Your Logo Will Be the Face of Your Business!

Treat creating a business logo like your success depends on it. In many ways, it might just be. A great one can help you stand out, drive customers to action, and even become the first identifier of your enterprise.

Therefore, it may just be your most important project of all. Having read our tips, we hope that you apply them as you're designing. We look forward to seeing your “face” everywhere!