Making a Logo Vs Making the Right Logo

It all started quite unexpectedly. I enlisted the help of my wife back then, I felt she had a more artistic touch. And honestly, it wasn't even about creating a logo initially.

Dr. Fauziah and Kak Syimah approached me one day, saying, "Pocik, could you kindly craft a backdrop for this event? Make it pleasing to the eye. Also, if possible, can you update that old logo?" And I thought to myself, "Well, this is like diving into deep waters while still sipping tea!"

I agreed, albeit with a hint of extra expedition of thinking, "How will I manage this?" I was skilled at capturing images, not so much at designing logos. At that time, my knowledge of Photoshop was merely fragments gleaned from YouTube tutorials.

"I lack the expertise, but with good intentions and a dash of ignorance, let's give it a try!"

And thus began my journey into logo creation, more than a decade after bidding farewell to my engineering career. Truth be told, anyone can embark on this path.

Afterward, thanks to the kind feedback from Dr. Fauziah and Kak Syimah on the backdrop logo, inquiries started pouring in. First, it was a friend in the cake business, followed by another friend from an NGO.

However, doubts crept in when I pondered, "Why does this logo look pristine on screen but loses its charm when printed?" So, I delved into learning from those more knowledgeable.

Armed with newfound knowledge, I refined my logo-making skills. From catering to individual clients, I transitioned to collaborating with larger corporations, publishers, and real estate firms.

Throughout this journey, I found myself straddling the line between being a business owner and a client to business owners. How does one discern if they truly need a logo, or if their business requires one, or if they can do without? Let me share some conversations I've had, shedding light on this dilemma from the perspectives of clients, designers, and reality.

Client: "I don't need a logo in the initial stages of business"

Valid point, but consider this – even in those embryonic stages, your brand is actually evolving, albeit not necessarily through a logo. Shouldn't consistency be maintained from the outset?

Client: "Wait, so the brand isn't synonymous with the logo?"

Precisely. The logo merely scratches the surface of branding.

Client: "But can't I manage without an elaborate logo?"

Perhaps for now. But what happens if your homemade logo suddenly becomes indecipherable or unrecognisable? Something to ponder.

Client: "I can easily interpret my own logo."

True, but it may only be recognisable because it's plastered across your social media. What about its efficacy in print or on various platforms? Planning ahead is prudent.

Client: "I'll invest in a professional logo once my business flourishes."

Indeed, but be prepared to allocate resources when the time comes. Sometimes, starting with the basics yields substantial rewards later.

Client: "I'm in a hurry, so I'll resort to Canva. Simple and straightforward."

Canva serves its purpose, but consider its limitations for printing and other future purposes. Additional costs may arise in future.

Client: "Fine. Can you create a logo as polished as those of major brands?"

Recall that branding transcends the logo. Iconic brands didn't attain their status overnight; it's about more than just the logo. Nike's logo did not have any voice to shout and call "Hey my name is Nike". Someone else did, since a long time ago.

Client: "Canva is free, so your services must command a higher price, correct?"

It varies. What's your vision for your business? If you're testing the waters, we can start modestly. If you're committed and ready to invest, I'm here to actualise your logo aspirations.

Client: "How can I enlist your logo services?"

Simply select a package from the provided form 👉🏻 here and we'll commence.

Should doubts persist, let's convene over tea. We'll assess whether your business truly necessitates a logo. Understanding your current position is paramount before making significant decisions.

Here's to your noble intentions, and may your products and services continue to prosper quietly. Coff coff coffee! 🍵