Logo redesign? When and how to do it — Examples included

Key takeaways

A logo redesign may be necessary when your current logo is outdated, your brand is evolving, you face new competition, or your logo doesn't work well across digital platforms.
When redesigning a logo, it's important to consider your reasons for the change, gather audience feedback, maintain some familiar elements, brainstorm ideas, create multiple variations, and test the new design before finalizing.
Common mistakes to avoid in logo redesign include overcomplicating the design, not testing it with your audience, changing it too frequently, and copying other brands. Promoting the new logo effectively is crucial for building excitement and recognition.

Considering a logo redesign? Your logo is the flag that represents your business, creating a professional first impression and establishing lasting memories with potential customers. But when your brand evolves and your logo feels outdated, it can hold your business back—not on our watch! That’s when it’s time for a logo redesign.

Redesigning your logo isn’t just about swapping fonts or colors; it’s about injecting new energy and vibrancy into your brand.

In this post, we’ll guide you through when and how to redesign your logo, share examples of successful (and unsuccessful) logo revamps, and help you avoid common mistakes during the redesign process.

Ready to have some fun? Let’s do this.

If you don’t have a logo yet, then check this out. Here’s how to make a logo (2024 beginner’s guide).

Disclaimer: All trademark rights belong to their respective owners. Third-party trademarks are used here for demonstrative and educational purposes only, use does not represent affiliation or endorsement.

What is a logo redesign?

A logo redesign involves revamping your brand’s existing logo. This can range from minor tweaks, like adjusting colors, to a complete logo makeover. A logo redesign can help to modernize and refresh your brand’s image in line with your new brand identity.

Let’s unpack when it may be time to rethink your logo.

When do you need a logo redesign?

You might need a redesign if:

Your logo is outdated	Unless being yesterday’s vibe is what you’re going for, an outdated logo can make your brand feel less relevant, getting in the way of connecting with modern audiences. Your brand is worth more than that.
Your brand is evolving	Your brand has a personality and all personalities evolve in time. Change is good! As your business shifts direction—a redesign can help communicate your brand’s new identity and focus.
Facing new competition	If a new competitor has entered the scene, a logo redesign can help you stand out and differentiate your brand.
Associated with negative connotations	If your brand or logo has received bad press for an unfortunate reason, then a logo redesign can give your brand a fresh start.
Bad first impressions	If potential customers struggle to understand your logo or ask if it’s a joke, then it’s definitely time for a refresh!
Digital compatibility	Your logo must be versatile across various digital platforms. If your current logo doesn’t translate well to social media, websites, or mobile devices, then bring on a logo redesign, baby!

How to redesign a logo

Ready to start your logo redesign? Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Consider your WHY

Before you can redesign your logo, you need to be clear on why you want to do this. Is your current logo too busy? Does it no longer reflect your brand? Gather feedback from your audience and team and be clear on why you are redesigning your logo.

2. Follow your audience

Let your audience guide your logo redesign through insights and research. You can even share samples of your logo redesign on your social channels to ask for feedback! This is a great way to make your audience feel part of your brand’s evolution.

3. Don’t start from scratch

There’s no need to reinvent the wheel. For a logo redesign, it’s often best to keep some elements familiar. This will also help maintain brand recognition.

4. Brainstorm logo redesigns

Open the floodgates and let those creative juices flow! This is the fun part. Explore your options, gather all your ideas in one place, and then narrow down the best ones.

5. Check different logo variations

Create multiple variations of your new, sparkling logo. Include a version for web, social media, print, and even tiny icons. And then, test them.

6. Test your new logo

Before finalizing your new logo, make sure to test it. You can organize a focus group (even get your friends involved) or run a survey. As mentioned earlier, you could share samples on social media and gather feedback through engagement polls. Getting feedback is crucial... even if it’s sometimes tough to hear!

Successful logo redesign examples

From this to that… Take a look at some successful logo transformations, including GoDaddy's own redesign.

For over two decades, GoDaddy’s quirky logo—featuring the "GoDaddy guy" with sunglasses and a yellow swoop—was a familiar face in the online world. But as GoDaddy evolved from a domain registration service into a full digital platform offering website building, hosting, and marketing tools, it was time for a fresh look!

We wanted a modern, professional vibe that matched our expanded offerings and resonated with the everyday entrepreneurs we love supporting.

In 2023, Google launched a redesign of its Android logo, bucking the trend of flattened vector-style logos and embracing a 3D update to its iconic bugdroid.

Pepsi has undergone multiple logo redesigns, with each refresh logo modernizing their image while keeping their brand identity intact.Their new logo keeps things fresh while also adding a throwback flair to their branding.

Common mistakes in logo redesign and how to avoid them

Redesigning a logo can feel risky, but don’t let that scare you. As long as you know what to avoid, you’ll be just fine.

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Overcomplicating the design	Don’t go overboard. You don’t need hundreds of fonts or thousands of colors. Keep. It. Simple.
Not testing it first	Always test your logo redesign with your audience. Skipping this step is a big no-no. Trust us, you’ll thank us later.
Changing it too often	Changing logos frequently can confuse your audience. Make sure your redesign has staying power before making it official.
Being a copycat	Don’t copy other brands. Explore different types of logos and examples, but find your own vibe and develop it.

How to promote your new logo design

It’s time to share your amazing new logo with the world! But how?

Promoting your new logo is all about building excitement and making sure everyone knows your brand’s fresh look.

You'll need to inform your audience that something new is coming—tease the redesign on social media, your website, or in emails. Then, when it’s time for the big reveal, make it a moment.

Think about marketing as your hype squad—use campaigns, content, and email blasts to show off the new logo. It's not just a design tweak; it's about new beginnings, fresh energy, and emotional connections with your customers!

Consider creating a story around the redesign to really connect with your audience. People need stories to understand and make sense of the world. The same rule of thumb applies to branding.

The more you promote it, the more your audience will recognize and love your new and improved logo.

FAQs about logo redesign

How much does it cost to redesign a logo?

This depends on a couple of factors, like if you decide to contract a designer, or if you decide to redesign your logo yourself. The second option is the cheaper way to go, but potentially daunting, right? Well, not if you let AI do the heavy lifting for you.

How often should you redesign your logo?

There’s no set rule, but most companies consider a logo refresh every 7-10 years.

What is the difference between a logo refresh and redesign?

A logo refresh involves small tweaks, like updating the font or colors, while a redesign is a more substantial overhaul. Check the meaning of a logo and why your business needs one.