Every company has an image that is embedded in the minds of consumers. The logos or brands help to create this image. “Modern” logos are characterized by simplicity and accessibility for all levels of interest. A lot of times, these logos don’t have underlines, borders, or other elements that would catch the eye – they’re just plain and simple.

What makes a modern logo?

I wanted to share What makes a modern logo? A logo’s simplicity is what defines it as modern. Modern logos do not utilize decorative elements, such as underlines, borders, and fine details that otherwise draw the eye to them.

They are simply and plainly designed to be viewed by all interests. They are also meant to be presented in a way that is accessible for those with any level of experience or interest.

Here are 10 characteristics of a good modern logo:

1. Simple

2. Versatile

3. Understandable from different angles and distances

4. Recognizable even when reduced in size to small icons for mobile devices or used on products, books, etc.

5. Can be read correctly from both left-to-right and right-to-left

6. Attention grabbing without distracting the viewer (clever use of typography and colors)

7. Clean and professional in appearance (does not look cheap or amateur, even when used as a small icon for mobile devices)

8. Flexible design that can work with any font choice while remaining attention-grabbing

9. Does not have any unnecessary decorative elements, like underlines or borders (plain and simple)

10. Can be used in a variety of mediums without losing its effectiveness as a logo

Let’s take a closer look at each characteristic of a modern logo. These characteristics are critical, and you will need to address all of them to have a successful modern logo.

Simple

Given the fact that some people are intimidated by overly decorated logos, a simple design is something to strive for. The simpler they are, the more comfortable others will feel about being able to use it in their own designs without having to worry about copyright issues or things like that. Not only do simpler designs look better, they are easier to remember and more versatile as well.

Versatile

If the logo is only going to be used on one product or in one situation, then it was not a very good choice from the start because there won’t be much flexibility with it. Look for logos that can stand alone as sharp looking designs but also can be used in different colors, fonts, and on different products. These are the kinds of logos that you will actually use more often and gain more flexibility out of when it comes time to make a presentation or design a website page.

Understandable from different angles and distances

Take some time to view your logo from various angles, sizes, and distances. You want it to look as good when someone is on the opposite side of town as when they’re right in front of you.

Recognizable even when reduced in size

If a logo works in its original format (large and colorful), it will also work in smaller sizes (small and black & white) without losing any of its appeal or effectiveness.

Can be read correctly from both left-to-right and right-to-left

Anyone who has ever traveled to other countries can tell you that this characteristic is one worth looking for. Even after the logo has been selected, check it out on different websites to make sure that it can be read correctly in both directions without any changes.

Attention grabbing without distracting the viewer

A logo does not have to be plain or boring in order to stand out. It just has to grab your attention without being so flashy that it goes right over your head.

Clean and professional in appearance

No one likes to be embarrassed, and a logo should help you build credibility, not destroy it. This does not mean that your logo needs to have gold leaf on it; it just has to look sharp.

Flexible design that can work with any font choice

The same logo does not have to be used throughout all of your materials. Actually, that’s a good thing because if it is too recognizable, then people will just think that you are lazy when it comes to changing up the design for different uses.

Does not have any unnecessary decorative elements

The logo should speak for itself, which is why decorative elements are unnecessary. They serve no purpose other than to make the logo look less professional.

Can be used in a variety of mediums

A single logo can be altered slightly by adding the use of color or other design elements without becoming a different logo. The font can be switched out for variations in other fonts, etc., but the basic identity of the logo itself remains intact.

The 10 characteristics of a modern logo are really all you need in order to have a design that will be functional and successful. If you adhere to the 10 tips mentioned above, you will gain an aesthetic that will work for any medium and range of audiences.