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Common Misconceptions About Brand Design

May 11, 2023

A woman with black hair and wearing a light blue sweather makes a quizzical face while holding up a credit card to the side of her head. photo by Liza Summer

It's common that business owners and entrepreneurs misinterpret what brand design is or unknowingly mistake what it encompasses. Brand design is a much more powerful and holistic process that involves creating a unique identity for your business and integrating it into all aspects of your business. Here are a few more misconceptions about brand design that business owners should be aware of.

Assuming that brand design is only for big businesses

Some people think that branding is only necessary for large corporations with big budgets. In reality, even small businesses and startups can benefit from a strong brand identity, and brand design is important for businesses of all sizes, including small businesses. A strong brand can help you stand out from competitors and build customer loyalty, which is especially important for small businesses.

Thinking that brand design is just about having a logo

Many business owners believe that having a logo is all they need for their brand. However, brand design goes beyond just creating a logo. While a logo is an important part of a brand, it's only one element of a larger design system that includes typography, color, imagery, and more. It involves creating a unique identity that represents your business in a consistent and memorable way across all touchpoints.

Animation of three photos of pages from a brand guide.

It's just about making things look pretty

Brand design is not just about making things look good. It's about creating a cohesive visual identity that communicates a brand's values, personality, and message to its audience.

Believing that brand design is separate from other aspects of your business

Brand design should be integrated into every aspect of your business, from your website to your social media channels to your packaging. It's important to ensure that your brand design is consistent across all touchpoints to create a strong and cohesive brand identity.

Believing that brand design is a one-time thing

Building a brand is an ongoing process, and brand design is just one part of it that requires continuous attention and refinement. A strong brand evolves over time and it will do so as your business grows. You need to be prepared to adjust and adapt your branding accordingly. In a quickly changing world, a brand often needs to be maintained and updated regularly to stay relevant and effective.

Thinking that brand design is expensive

Some people think that hiring a brand designer is too expensive and not worth the investment. However, investing in your brand design can pay off in the long run by attracting more customers and increasing brand recognition. A strong brand can create a more loyal customer base that follows and returns again.

Brand design is an important part of creating a successful business and it should not be overlooked. Investing in your brand design can be a smart move that can yield great rewards. Don't underestimate the power of a strong brand identity and that it's an ongoing process requiring attention and adaptation to stay relevant. Brand design is about more than making things look nice — it's also about creating a visual identity that communicates your message and values to your audience. Business owners should be aware of the misconceptions of brand design in order to create an effective and successful brand.


Does brand design sound right for you? Let's connect and chat.