While there have been numerous heated debates on this topic of “logo design contests” or famously branded as “spec-work” I wish to propose a different viewpoint today. Firstly, let me make it clear that I am neither speaking in support nor against spec-work in logo designing. It is you who will take a better option for yourself. What I intend to achieve through this post is to elucidate the topic from a different perspective.

Before coming to my topic, let us be a little realistic about a logo design contest. A logo design contest requires participation and nobody can be forced to participate. Those who believe they have the mettle to outclass other logo designers voluntarily participate. Your participation shows your support and interest in being part of that game and your absence clearly states that you are not interested. In short, if you do not approve of logo design contests and claim it to be unethical, simply don’t participate. However, your disapproval does not grant you the privilege to mortify the contests and the logo designers who participate. My words may sound a little harsh for some logo designers but guys “Live and let live” is the dictum we should follow.

Let me remind you that I am discussing exclusively about spec-work in logo designing. Like every business, spec-work has its share of pros and cons. Let us look at some of the merits and demerits of logo design contests.

How is spec-work in logo design a Boon?

• Provides opportunity for in-experienced logo designers to show their talent.
• Logo design contests serve as a wonderful inspiration spot for other designers.
• It provides a level playing field for logo designers who are not in developed countries.
• An amiable cure in recessionary periods for both clients and unemployed logo designers.
• A chance for logo designers to gain experience through trial and error.
• A platform to display your logo design portfolio and gain recognition in the design world.
• An easy way for logo designers to test their design skills.
• A chance to get acquainted with other logo designers.

How spec-work may become a Bane?

• In some cases, spec-work in logo designing may provide no guarantee of any reward money.
• Spec-work poses legal risks for both parties. Intellectual property, trademark and copyright infringement of logo designs are the major issues.
• It devalues the logo design industry and undermines the well-established logo designers.
• The logo design contests are judged only by the client’s personal liking.
• It can be time consuming and without compensation can be frustrating for logo designers.
• Clients trying to obtain low cost solution are compromising on quality of logo designs, as spec-work may involve little time, energy and thought for research.

With the arrival of every new year, trends are released for every field and logo design is no exceptional. Being a part of logo designing industry, involuntarily we become addicted to the design trends and eagerly await the long lists of design predictions for the upcoming year. Although I do not believe much in following specific rules and regulations for logo designing but I would confess that these trends can get you excellent inspiration sparks.

Logo designing is a crucial part of design industry as it is responsible for making or breaking the corporate identity of a brand. Therefore, it is important that we stay updated about the happenings and trends of the industry but I wouldn’t suggest confining your creativity skills to a list of trends.

However, with this ending year, I bring you a wrap-up of logo design trends frequently adapted in 2009 but I would like you to answer couple of these questions:

Not to forget….I have picked up the logos from logopond, faveup, logolounge, creattica

Dots and Stripes:

Circular: 

Origami

Encrusted

Typographic

Geometrical

Sequential

Pixels

Gossamer