Twitter only paid $15 for its iconic logo. Alternatively, BBC’s most recent logo cost $1.8 million. While you don’t have to invest tons of money on a logo design, you might want to think about if your logo can “stand the test of time.” In other words, can you create a logo that can be easily changed with the ebb and flow of your market’s preferences?
Most logos are tending towards a flat, simple design just for that reason. If you plan to be a competitor in your market for a while, plan on updating your logo regularly.
Logos that are simple are easy to identify and can be changed to match your market’s direction.
icons & vector kits
A powerful icon can “show rather than say.” The trick is to use just the right amount of icons on your website, presentation, or printed material so that your interface is still clean but not diluted.
While I tend to create simple icons that can be understood with a quick glance, complicated icons can often communicate more complex ideas.
Designing an icon or set of icons which is universally readable is a huge challenge. If done correctly, you can create visual interest for even non-native speakers, reaching a subset of individuals you never imagined could fit into your client base.
branding
Branding doesn’t stop at a nice logo and a beautiful webpage. Your brand represents you, and should be on every piece of printed media, digital media and administrative paperwork.
Many companies forget that any piece of media someone sees could be the first time they are introduced to their company.
Even if you have all of the above, your brand will change as your business grows and as your market discerns.