Every project from Link Creative has a thorough creative process with essential steps. I like to share an overview of this process with prospective clients as it can be very informative and beneficial. Some steps may vary from one project type to another but this is a good general overview. As an example I will use a new logo design to show you my process.

The Brief

This first step is the most important and detail is key. This step involves me getting to know everything about your company, the project, and your creative needs/expectations. Most information can received by filling out a creative questionnaire. We can then communicate in a variety of ways, email, phone, or meeting. The initial brief ensures no time is wasted and focus is kept, ensuring the project’s effectiveness.

Research/Brainstorm

With the information I obtained in the first step the next step is to brain storm and research. I look at aspects like target market, competition, trends, what should set you apart, your history, and most importantly your future. The more detail obtained in the first step the more creative wings can expand in discovering the most successful ideas.

Sketching

After all is soaked in from above out comes the pencil. This is where a good number directions and ideas are beginning to be visually explored. I will be honest, some may be brought to life on a napkin at a restaurant but some of the best things are born in odd places! Nothing better than the true freedom to sketch and explore. These thumbnails are key to discovering. Below are some examples of thumbnails for a logo design.

Prototype Design

After refining select thumbnail sketch ideas I then take them into the computer (adobe Illustrator) to bring a few protype designs to life. Some clients want to see 2 or 3 versions, but it all depends on the project scope. Your options are first send to you via PDF in black and white versions so that we can focus first on the form and shape of your logo. Color is left for the end stages.
At this point it is your time to look over what I have provided and I am always open to questions and suggestions.

Finishing Touches

We are nearing home stretch as I follow your review. I will finalize the idea with color and apply any direction you may have given me at this point. My aim is to always work close with you to provide a logo that is perfectly fitting for the needs of your business or organization.

Supply

Last but not least is the final delivery. You need the goods right! Your project will be provided in the highest resolution and file format that is needed. Logos are provided in Vector format (which can be scaled to any size without loss of quality). If you have any other specific file requirements, just ask.

Finally after tons of time with tons of interruptions I have finalized a logo for Link Creative. For anyone who may have followed my process on HOW design Forums (forum I frequent for critiques) you would know that this has been a long process. This is the 3rd of 3 version that I thought were final, but realized I wanted to go further. I think designing a logo for yourself has to be one of the biggest challenges. After all this time and work I am as close as I can get to being thoroughly satisfied! I feel this mark says it all.

With this logo I wanted it to communicate “link” visually, thus choosing to create a script lettering. I wanted it to have a mixture of an elegant sophisticated look with a pinch of funk and urban. Those two seemingly different touches I felt would be a good combination that would speak to my target audience, and communicate my diverse abilities. I also created an icon to be used when appropriate. This icon has a concept if it’s own with its continuing linked flowing line forming the L.

The theory of Link Creative is being the creative connection for all of it’s clients. Connecting good design to your business which in turns connects you with your market.