I was recently doing some research for a page I’m writing for our website about logo theory. I find some of the methods that people use to develop logos quite interesting, especially the logos of companies that many would consider American icons. Sometimes the process is the result of tons and tons of research a la the Cingular logo which was the outcome of a couple of years of testing and market research. Other times, the logo we know today is the product of a “nothing” being developed and refined over time… like the Ford emblem. Even more amazing is the success of some logos that were thrown together at the last minute and through some sort of ethereal magic came out great much like the Napster logo.
The truth is that consistent succesful logo design, like website design, requires someone who knows what they’re doing to apply appropriate amounts of science, art, and ingenuity. I believe consistency is the aim for all professional designers; yet only the rookies or ignorant believe you’re going to hit the bullseye every time. Add to this the fact that all of this is then subject to sometimes inexplicable personal opinion and well… it’s no wonder that I’m losing my hair…
(Although I should blame my Mom for that…)