Logo decisions

Gary — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:38:43 +0000

As we ventured through the website design process we were faced with a decision to keep the same logo or change. Currently we use lowercase script preceded by red and grey hoops.

Original mediaburst logo

Now there is nothing wrong with the logo, we moved to lowercase about 18 months ago as it’s easier to read than the capitalised version. But in our brief to the designers we said they mustn’t be restricted by what already exists.

Design 1 – change is good

Design 1 took the existing logo and placed it on a textured background of grey…. and got a big universal thumbs down.

New logo: option 1

On reflection mainly due to it being the same logo. What it did do is crystallise in our mind we wanted something new and fresh. Where as previously we were happy with the logo, now we were not, and not for any other reason than the launch of the new site will herald a huge step forward for the company and we want to reflect the fact in everything we do and are, including the logo.

Design 2 – we are mediaburst

In design 2 we took a different approach by incorporating more of a strap line in an attempt to convey our passion and belief. Hoops are remove and colours changed.

New logo: option 2

It’s clean, fresh, easy to read and we liked the concept, but it fell down on 2 accounts.

Firstly, on our past experience of using a strap line so close to the company name. We used to have “Inspiring Communication” and it amazes me how much post we still get addressed to “Mediaburst Inspiring Communication Limited”. Our decision was any logo must be absolutely clear that we are called Mediaburst.

And secondly, while we do love mobile, our name is a name and not a statement, we are Mediaburst and that is what we shall be called.

Design 3 – the anti logo

This design really caught us, it’s bold, the colour fresh, and the textured background provides depth that allows our company name to stand out as a logo.

One comment was that it’s an “anti logo”. In contrast to the capabilities of that web 2.0 thingy people talk about. Here we have simple text, the font is Arial, there are no icons, hoops, loops, telegraph poles, mobile phones, robots, or bleepy signals.

It also carries on the use of red in our corporate identity providing us with valuable continuity.

It’s not confusing, easy to read and gives us that fresh vibrant feel we strive for.

Decision made.

New logo: option 3 - the winner

A word about the process

While I’m on I felt it worth sharing a few words on the process we employed to make our decisions.

The honest truth is, there were no focus groups or structured appraisal techniques used.

We haven’t spent days on this or thousands of pounds on brand consultants.

We’ve made the decision as a group of employees using gut feel.

We’ve all bought into it, there was no selling required

We like it, and we hope you will too.

A sneaky peak

Finally, sometimes a logo doesn’t look like much unless placed in context, so here’s a sneaky peak, a taste of what’s to come!