Accessibility Awareness Week – Logo: Is It as Memorable as You Think?

A logo isn’t just a visual mark. It is the handshake, the greeting, the first impression of your brand, and long after the interaction, it’s what holds the memory, the meaning… and the reputation. 

Designers often quote Jonathan Hoefler, co-creator of the NYC Subway’s iconic typeface: “A logo is like an outfit. It should be appropriate for the occasion, flattering to the wearer, and memorable to the observer.” 

For diverse audiences, it's more important than that. Your logo becomes the first interaction that invites or shuts them out. 

The logo is a branded element that is usually the first to be created, even before tone of voice is solidified. Even with tight budgets, people invest in a logo because it legitimizes their presence and become an embodiment of values.   

But not every designer knows how to make that presence inclusive. Some forget to check if a symbol has been used before or if it means something harmful in another language. It's very difficult for a logo to change it's associations once it creates harm. And while redesigns are possible, lost trust is harder to rebuild. 

These missteps lead to loss in advocacy from your audience and most importantly ignore best standards.  

The good news? Most of these issues are preventable. And the fixes are low or no cost. 

Brands with inclusive logos:

• Design with high color contrast to avoid eye strain.

• Remove stereotypical or culturally appropriated symbols.

• Add an alt-text description to digital versions.

• Test and iterate based on audience feedback.
  

Inclusive designers can responsibly guide brands in crafting logos that not only represent their mission but also resonate with a diverse audience.

The outcome? Enhanced trust, broader reach, and a community that feels seen.

Ask yourself:

• Does your logo designer understand the ramifications of not double checking originality?

• Does it remain legible at large and small sizes, on all backgrounds?

• Is your logo accessible to those with permanent, temporary or situational impairments?
  

This is Day 2 of our Accessibility Awareness Week email series to celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day. Tomorrow, we explore the world of Color—and what happens when branding ignores contrast.