Guidelines For Creating & Delivering Logos

Due to an increase in logo contests at DesignContest.net, I would like to raise your awareness about creating and delivering logos to clients. Please read through the following guidelines, and make sure you follow them when designing.

Graphic Formats

There are two types of graphics that can be created:
1) Vector format
2) Raster (Bitmap) format

Vectors can be scaled to any size without losing quality. They are based on mathematical calculations.

Raster graphics can not be scaled properly, as they lose quality and become pixelated. JPG, GIF, PNG & TIFF are all raster based files.

Creating Vector Logos

To create vector based logos, designers should be using either Adobe Illustrator, Corel Draw or Macromedia Freehand or Macromedia Flash. Photoshop is a viable option, but it is important that no part of the logo is ever rasterized by the program (this can often occur when filters are applied). The first three programs are recommended.

Please Note: Even If the logo will be used on the web, it should still be created in vector format. This is to give the client flexibility in using the logo in the future. Remember, Vector can always be converted to Raster, but the opposite is not always true.


Converting Text to Outlines

Because every computer has a different set of fonts installed on it, you should never assume that the client has the particular font you used available. It is often illegal to deliver font files with your logo, so it is important that you convert all your text to paths, curves or outlines. This step will convert all fonts into a vector shape, and will not allow you to edit the text any further.

In Adobe Illustrator, simply select the text you want to outline and go to Type > Create Outlines.


Saving & Delivering the Files

Once finished designing, all vector logos should be delivered in both their original program format (.AI, .PSD, .FLA, .CDR, etc.), and as a .EPS file. EPS is an industry standard, meaning "Encapsulated PostScript". It can be imported into all major design programs, and is often the file of choice for many printing companies.

Files should be zipped or archived using an appropriate utility, and should be tested for compatibility before being handed over to the client.


Restricted Content

No third-party images should be used in logo designs (e.g. Clipart, Stock Photos, Stock Designs). This is true for several reasons, including the following:

• Most image makers have legal terms to prevent designers from using the work in any sort of Trade Mark or Identity
• Serious consequences may arise out of unauthorized use of someone's work
• There is a great lack of originality associated with placing mass-produced images into a company's identifying mark.

Additional Information

About EPS Format - redirect to www.prepressure.com