How Do You Pick a Logo?

I'll assume you're here because you need a logo for your church, ministry or other organization. Here are a few suggestions on how to find one that best suits your organization:

Center on scripture. Got a theme verse or passage that you use to help people know who your church is and where you are going? Let that passage drive your logo selection. For instance, one church I have served with is deeply committed to the Acts 2 church model (Acts 2:42-27), and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). If I were choosing a logo for that church, I would have those scriptures available as I looked at logo options, and consider how well each logo option represented those verses.

Go with the obvious. Don't think your logo has to capture some deep-rooted symbolism and encompass your church's entire mission statement and vision. Many larger congregations get into a meticulous design phase for their logo that is just a waste of time and money. You must realize, the end result is not going to mean much to most people, other than to identify your church in your communications and media. You don't have the branding reach or dollars to impact your audience any more than that.

So go with the obvious. If your church has embraced world missions to a significant degree, go with a "world" oriented logo. If you're particular congregation is focused on evangelism, choose a logo that points to the Gospel. If you have many ministries for serving others, go that direction. If you're all about reaching those far from God, choose a logo that speaks to that audience. It doesn't have to be complicated--take the broadest brush and paint your chuch in two or three words. Then, pick a logo based on that description.

Ask a woman. Women, in general, are much better at this stuff than men. If a ministry-guy fraternity is going to pick the logo, bad decision. Get women to share their input. You'll be surprised at what catches their eyes. Remember, too, that in the North American church, more than half of your audience is female.

Keep the selection group small. No more than 4-5 people, preferrably fewer. Logos shouldn't be chosen by committee--too many opinions and agenda make the process much more difficult.

Sleep on your choice. Once you settle on a design, don't implement immediately. Let it sit for a week and then come back to it. Logos tend to grow on you over time. You'll either like them more, or you'll come across a much better option during the "incubation" period. Make your decision a simple one, but don't necessarily make it a quick one.

  

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The Big Book of Logos

> Click for more books and periodicals on designing.

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