What is a logo?
A logo is a graphical element, (ideogram, symbol, emblem, icon, sign) that forms a trademark or commercial brand. Typically, a logo’s design is for immediate recognition, inspiring trust, admiration, loyalty and an implied superiority. The logo is one aspect of a company’s commercial brand, or economic entity, and its shapes, colors, fonts, and images usually are different from others in a similar market. Logos are also used to identify organizations and other, non-commercial entities. Definition taken from Wikipedia.com

There are 3 types of logos: Iconic/symbolic, logotype/wordmark and combination mark.

Iconic/Symbolic logos are a powerful emblem of a particular company or product. Graphical illustrations and imagery are used solely to convey the organisation’s message/brand/image. Symbols leave a lot of room for broader interpretation of what the organization represents and practical usage, but are only effective if instantly recognisable and linked to the company.

Logotype/Wordmark logos visually represent your company or brand name in the form of a type font that has been uniquely styled and treated. Type is a powerful language, with each font having different characteristics and projecting a different image. A suitable font has to be chosen/custom designed/modified in order to transform it into a logotype that is congruent with the company’s brand.

Combination Marks are logos with both type font and a symbol/icon as part of its visual make up. Combination marks can be designed to be integrated or stand alone. For instance, the Starbucks logo has the type integrated with the graphic, and the AT&T logo has the icon separate from the type. Combination marks have the advantage of flexibility in usage and application.

All logos featured in this post are the respective copyrights of their owner companies and organisations.