The Difference Between Logo Design and Branding
There’s a general perception that logo design and branding are the same thing. But, we’re here to share the truth… they’re not!
Having a logo designed and building a brand are two separate things, and when brought together, create what your company is looking for. A compelling way to stand out from the competition, and be remembered for who you are and what you offer.
In this article, we discuss the difference between a logo design and branding. And, why it’s important that you invest in both.
Who are we?
Before we dive deep into this article, let us introduce ourselves! We’re Steady Studio. We are a boutique branding studio that specializes in branding, graphic design, and websites. We focus on the core emotional truths of your business, develop a compelling story and create a visual identity (more on that below!) that helps your business stand out from the competition in the eyes of your target market. All in all, we know a thing or three about logo design and branding.
What is logo design?
A logo is a symbol. It is the visual representation of your business and what you stand for. It’s essentially a visual shorthand that represents who you are and creates the opportunity for people to recognize your company while out and about.
Think about it for a minute.
When you hear the names of some of the biggest companies in the world, like: Apple, Microsoft, Toyota, Twitter, Lululemon, Nike, chances are you were able to picture the logo in your head…
That’s the magic of a strong logo design, paired with a compelling brand story.
Why is logo design so important?
Every business has a logo, or at least they should! It is a memorable image that reminds customers of your company, it’s a connection point. Your company’s logo helps to consistently unify all parts of the company together in a cohesive way. From your Facebook page to your Instagram profile. When customers see your logo, they will know they’re at the right place.
A well designed logo will show customers that your company has high expectations, you’re professional and care about your own image. These traits will then encourage leads to become customers.
A good logo design represents a sense of pride and it allows people to see your company as trustworthy and reliable. Also, one they may want to show off and be proud to sport on their clothing or vehicle to show they align with your business and ideals.
What is a brand?
A brand is the emotionally compelling story of a business. It’s the idea or the “image” they see in their mind when they think of your company. This happens when a person experiences and remembers all of the parts of your company. The name, logo, marketing campaigns, experiences they’ve had as a customer, among other things.
The brand is all about the feelings and story behind a company.
How do you build a brand?
Whether you know it or not, if you own a business, you already have a brand. As a business owner it is your decision whether or not you take an active role in shaping that brand and managing the perceptions of your audience. Or you can sit back and passively surrender control of how your business is perceived to others.
Spoiler alert: We believe you should play an active role in shaping your brand.
When you decide to invest in a brand identity, you’re choosing to take ownership of your brand and how your business is perceived. To create an emotionally resonant story. You’re showing the world that you are ready to go from do-it-yourself pretender to all-star professional contender. During this process, you will work with a branding company, like Steady Studio, to determine what your brand identity is and what you want to portray.
Why does branding and logo go hand-in-hand?
Your brand is the collective impression of the public touchpoints of your business. Your logo is just one component of that – it’s a very important component – but it is not the whole picture.
Your logo is the thing that most people will see and remember. It will be the piece of your company that will be on most, if not all, of your touchpoints with customers. From digital marketing to your new brochure.
Your brand exists as the sum total of your audience’s perceptions. Your logo represents your brand.
So, they have to go together! People will be able to instantly connect with your company when they see your logo. If done correctly, they will associate it with the positive thoughts and feelings they have about your business. If you have a great logo, it will ideally transport the person to feel and connect with the brand identity your company has created and worked so hard on.