You've either started a new business and need a new logo from scratch or have finally decided that Microsoft Paint “logo” is not quite cutting it anymore. Now, with a little help from an experienced graphic designer you set out to remake your company's image. In the back of your mind are great company logos like Apple, FedEx, and numerous others but what makes those designs shine? Well, besides the billions poured into advertising, these prized logos were designed to last.

When developing the fresh new logo that will signify the fundamental characteristics of your company don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone. Personal tastes change over time and when you look to your logo that can be important. Let go of those constraints and explore options that might be a little uncomfortable at first but that will last into the future. You will ultimately have to be the judge of how much you relax your vision but overall the goal is to not be too critical of initial ideas. If this happens you will feel yourself sorting though many logo ideas without finding one that matches your expectations early on. This can happen with everyone from time to time because we like what we have seen. By taking a look around it's not hard to find many logos that sport an uncanny resemblance to another well known brand. You strive to be bold in business strategy and it's just as important when designing your business logo.

The underlying objective of your new logo design should be to encourage action. This can be anything from action physically for customers to buy your product or service, or to promote initiative in your employees. Find yours and stick to it. As your designs progress getting targeted feedback can be helpful and should be utilized. Just remember that everyone has an opinion so be sure to seek feedback wisely from others who you truly value their input. If you start to get too many different view points your fresh shiny new logo design has the potential to get picked over until it's no longer recognizable and even worse, dull. Even the big guys had naysayers. Keep the passion and make your statement bold.

When the dust settles after your logo creation and a clear winner has been established, continue to reinvest in your business's future. Nothing is worse for a designer than to see a great logo design get the boot to commonplace. After all the work to build a winning logo don't get soft on where it goes. The good news is that every letter, sign, or note your company sends out or is seen by a customer is an opportunity to build credibility and image. No mater who you are or what your business does, consistency is key to maintaining that fresh new logo.

Propel your business forward by developing a lasting new logo design with these tips in mind.

• Encourage action!

• Explore a variety of initial logo concepts outside your comfort zone.

• Gain trusted feedback and improve.

• Guard it. Protect your new logo in everything your company does.