Logo Design vs Full Brand Identity: What Do You Need?

"We just need a logo" is one of the most common requests we get. Sometimes that is exactly right. Other times the business really needs a brand identity, and a logo alone leaves them with inconsistent flyers, social posts and signage a few months later.

What a logo is

A logo is the mark that identifies your business: a symbol, a wordmark or both. A good logo package should include versions for light and dark backgrounds, a simplified icon version and the right file types for print and web.

What a full brand identity includes

• The logo and its variations.
• A colour palette with exact colour codes for print and screen.
• Typography: which fonts to use for headings and body text.
• Brand guidelines showing how to use all of the above correctly.
• Templates for social media, ads, business cards and other materials.
• Tone of voice: how your brand sounds in writing.

Which one do you need?

A logo is enough if...

• You are testing a new idea and need to look professional quickly.
• You will produce very little marketing material for now.

Choose a full brand identity if...

• You post on social media regularly or run ads.
• Several people or suppliers create materials for you.
• You are launching a website, signage or vehicle wraps.
• Your current materials all look slightly different.

Why consistency pays off

Customers need to see a brand several times before they remember it. When every post, ad and sign uses the same colours, fonts and style, each impression builds on the last. When they don't, you are effectively starting again every time.

Browse our logo design portfolio for examples, or explore our logo design and branding services.