Getting your logo right before launch is one of the most important things you can do for your startup. A professional logo builds trust, attracts investors, and positions you correctly in your market from day one. Here’s the complete checklist.
Before You Brief Your Designer
- ✅ Define your target audience clearly (age, profession, values, pain points)
- ✅ Write down 3–5 adjectives that should describe your brand (e.g. “trustworthy, modern, approachable”)
- ✅ Identify your top 3 competitors and note what you like and dislike about their logos
- ✅ Collect 5–10 logos you admire and can explain why
- ✅ Decide on your business name (this seems obvious, but many founders change it after getting a logo made)
- ✅ Consider whether you need a symbol/icon, a wordmark (text only), or a combination mark
During the Design Process
- ✅ Ask for at least 2–3 distinct initial concepts (not variations of one idea)
- ✅ Test each concept in black and white first — a great logo works without colour
- ✅ Check legibility at small sizes (favicons, business cards, social media profile pictures)
- ✅ Ensure it works on both light and dark backgrounds
- ✅ Get feedback from people in your target market — not just friends and family
- ✅ Check that no element is too trendy (what looks cool in 2025 may look dated in 2027)
File Formats to Request
Always request these formats from your designer:
- ✅ SVG — scalable vector, essential for web and any size usage
- ✅ AI or EPS — editable source files for future designers
- ✅ PDF — for print-ready use
- ✅ PNG (transparent background) — for digital use on any background
- ✅ PNG (white version) — for dark backgrounds
- ✅ PNG (black version) — for single-colour printing
Where You’ll Use Your Logo
Make sure you’ve tested your logo across all these touchpoints:
- ✅ Website header (desktop and mobile)
- ✅ Favicon (16×16px, 32×32px) — test how it looks tiny
- ✅ Social media profile pictures (circular crop on most platforms)
- ✅ Email signature
- ✅ Business cards
- ✅ Invoices and documents
- ✅ Signage or vehicle wrap (if applicable)
Legal Checklist
- ✅ Get written confirmation that the design is original and not based on stock assets
- ✅ Ensure full copyright transfer is included in your contract
- ✅ Consider trademark registration once you’re operating (a trademark attorney can advise)
- ✅ Do a reverse image search to check uniqueness
Ready to Get Your Startup Logo?
Logo Logicos has worked with hundreds of startups to create professional brand identities from day one. Every package includes all file formats, full copyright transfer, and unlimited revisions.