Excelerate Learning Solutions logo - $110

[excelerate]

(Admin code added by Palmer - H655174N)

Hi,

I am looking for a simple professional/corporate logo for my new start up company, 'Excelerate Learning Solutions'.

WHAT WE DO

The company specialises in accelerated learning techniques and is concerned with training and coaching individuals and group sessions. We will offer corporate and personal coaching, so I am looking to appeal to both (which is why I have opted for a corporate image).

Just to explain very briefly what accelerated learning involves, it covers SPEED reading, memory techniques, mind mapping etc. So anything to do with high achievement at HIGH SPEEDS, and anything linked to the BRAIN, or thinking, or particularly, as the name suggests - EXCELLING at learning quickly will be appropriate.

DESIGN

I have no slogan, however I would like the focus to be on the word, 'Excelerate' with perhaps 'learning solutions' in smaller letters underneath.

I am looking for a fairly compact, concise image, with few colours, but visually appealing.

COLOUR CHOICE

Fairly open to suggestions, however am particularly keen on a combination of light blue, grey (or silver) and white (for a sort of cool coloured image) but would welcome brighter versions of these (or other suggestions!) to enhance the image.

Generally want to avoid greens and oranges!

GRAPHICALLY ENHANCED WORDS OR PICTURE BASED LOGO

I am in 2 minds whether the focus should be on graphically making the text visually appealing (without a logo picture to back it up), or whether a picture should be incorporated into the logo (with perhaps the text in just a plain but attractive font). I certainly could use a stand alone picture logo too, however, I really want the text to look good and perhaps the 'speed' or 'excelling' being conveyed graphically in the text.

SIMPLICITY

I am really fond of simple logos that convey the right image without confusing the eyes! I have seen some superb professional examples on this site, so if they can meet these standards, I'll be very pleased!

I am also open to suggestions outside of my guidelines,

Many thanks, and Good luck!

Mark
Excelerate Learning Solutions

[ejlain]

Hi. Here's my first idea.

Thanks

- Ed

[Bill]

Here's my entry...

[Mowling]

Hello Mark...here is a concept...with an abstract brain-form can be used as a stand alone graphic symbol for various applications. Instead of slanting the excelerate text forward I put emphasis on the "X" giving it a fast-moving feel. Let me know of any changes you would like.

thanks,
M@

[excelerate]

Hi,

Well that's 3 superb designs to start the ball rolling! I'm impressed.

FEEDBACK

ejlain

An excellent first idea. Definitely along the right lines. I love the shape of the profile of the head, and the whole design is suitably modern/futuristic (by the way, I know I didn't specify a futuristic feel to the design, but that is perfect, as accelerated learning techniques will become the future standard learning techniques.)

I also like the way the text goes through the eyes of the head.

The font is nice, however it might be good to see some other fonts in the same/similar design?

Although it's not essential, as I mentioned, I could certainly use a stand alone graphic to represent the company too, and wondered if a part of this design could be used as one, or developed into one?

If you have any other different ideas, I'd love to see them too as this one is great. Thanks Ed!

pennyln

Love the brain speeding along, and the simplicity of the design. I'm not so sure of the font for 'learning solutions' (I felt it could be easier on the eyes than it is). The whole concept is fantastic, however it might be slightly veering towards the cartoony side, and therefore more suited to the personal market rather than corporate.

How about a similar idea, using graphics to demonstrate the effects you have done but slightly less cartoony? Great stuff, thanks Bill!

Mowling

Excellent corporate/professional feel to it. I do like the fact that I can use the image separately too.

The font is excellent (although wouldn't hurt to see some others too!) and the 'X' is great.

I like the image, knowing exactly what it was and what it represents, but someone just mentioned that they thought it looked like an ear! Perhaps you might be able to modify it slightly (I really like the simplicity of it though!) to make it definitely look like a brain?

Over all, the feel of the design is spot on, so it'd be great to see some more of your ideas that convey the same image! Cheers Matt!

ONWARD

Fantastic start by all - would certainly love to see variants of what has been done, but would also strongly welcome more different ideas too. Keep it up!

Thanks Mark ;)

[excelerate]

Hi,

I meant to say, I'm not sure what the options are for file format once the logo is sent to me.

Please can someone suggest how I might like to recieve it, and what the benefits are? (ie. what gives me most flexibility etc)

Many thanks,

Mark

[Mowling]

Mark...You definately need .eps & .ai vector formats also .jpeg, tiff, gif & png.
I am sure any designer can provide you with these files.

[excelerate]

Great, thanks Matt.

[ejlain]

Hi Mark.
Thanks for all the feedback. Here are a few revisions and some new ideas.

Thanks

Ed

[excelerate]

These are great Ed - I do prefer the ones with the head profile, however, if you have any other ideas I still want to see them! The idea of the x being a person is great (and I guess it's a person jumping up and down with joy at their new amazing brain, right?!!)

I think purely for my own visual preference, the head profile ones are best.

Those new ones with just the 'e' on the image would be great for a stand alone representation of the company. Not so keen on the 'excelerate' font on those though.

The modification on the original design (bringing the 'x' in with the 'e') is excellent too.

Nice to see another font in the original design aswell, I'd love to see examples of other fonts that you think would suit.

Excellent work! Thanks!

[Hypnosis]

Hi all,

excelerate,

this is just an idea using your colour scheme, tell me wot u think ;)

Hyp!

[ejlain]

Hi Mark
A few more revisions to the same theme.

Let me what you think.

Thanks

- Ed

[Mowling]

Hello Mark...here are some revised concepts.

thanks,
M@

[excelerate]

Hi all,

We're definitely on the right tracks here. I'm liking them all. I'd still love to see some completely different designs too if you have any ideas..

FEEDBACK

ejlain

Excellent variations, you're making it hard for me to decide which I like best! They're all good for different reasons. On your latest 5:

1)
*I like the head in black
*I like the way you have fit 'learning solutions' to make it flush against 'excelerate'
*I like the 'x' merging with the 'e'
*I'm not so keen on the 'excelerate' font though
2)
*don't like the font
*like the grey background (works very well with the stand alone image I think)
*I think the lower case rounded 'e' fits the head better as you have done
*quite like 'excel' standing out
3)
*font is interesting, quite like it, but worry it might not be clear enough
*square 'E' not such a good fit
4)
*not so keen on font
*think perhaps a black head might be better
*love the overall stand alone image
5)
*love the font
*like the 'learning solutions' style
*like the large 'x' AND the fact that 'excel' comes out
*not 100% sure in the 'e' in the head. In two minds about that one! Might grow on me...

Overall - excellent. Hopefully I'm giving you some help here, I'm after a certain type of font, modern, almost futurisitc, but I don't want it to date quickly, and I want it to be clear. I'm still looking at these considering the use of the logo (text and image) and perhaps a separate stand alone image. These ideas are definitely along the right lines..Thanks Ed!

Hypnosis

Love the overall look of it, but the image is really faint in my browser. Are you able to post it again, or some variations with the colours brighter/bolder?

*love the font - excellent
*like the way the image fits, and it could be pulled away from the text as a stand alone image.
*wasn't so sure of the actual picture inside the circle, although it is relevant to have a person, it might be more relevant to show just a head, or brain
*wasn't so keen on the stars - I think the simplicity without the stars might be better.

Excellent design though and definitely with the professionalism I'm after, so I'd love to see variations and other ideas! Thanks Hyp!

Mowling

Superb again Matt, definitely more like a brain this time, and still really like the simplicity.

1)
*like it - how about seeing it almost the same but without the white triangles, and perhaps with another variation? Also, I like the brain, but do you have any other variations on that too? Excellent design that one!
*for some reason that I can't explain, I reckon it might be nice to see some grey in it too! (Don't ask me why I'm so hung up on this grey thing - I don't know..!)
2)
*love the variation and would like to see some more!
*really like the way it shows the brain moving/speed etc
*good to remember, it's not just a brain, it's a superior or excellent brain that would represent the company best, and this shows that well
*love the font, although would want to hear other's opinions on that one before comitting! Might be slightly unclear. That 'x' is still perfect! Thanks Matt!

ONWARD

I hope my feedback is helping you all - please let me know if you want me to be more specific or how I can help you more...I'd imagine it's not too bad, as you're moving in the direction I want.

I love what I've seen, but would still love to see any completely different designs too. Other words that might spark off ideas: 'intellectual' 'super brain' 'results' 'thinking'...

I was looking at some logo's on this site:

http://www.logoed.fsnet.co.uk/logos/page19/page19.html

and loved the simplicity in some of them. Might be good to see some ideas like them too? Keep it up guys!

Thanks Mark

[Hypnosis]

Hi Mark,

Thank you for your feedback. Here, I tried to look for other ideas than the brain one and came to think that we not only learn with our brain but with the whole body! Of course the brain is where it is all memorized but I tried to get the human being more across as an icon of knowlege. Please tell me what you think.


regards,

Hyp!

[Hypnosis]

hi again,

here is a different approach to it, since learning and knoelege is all about sharing, I came up with this arrow idea... tell me what you think


hyp!

[Raja]

howdy, quick concept, used 5 different font weights to suggest acceleration

edit* just noticed the resemblance to Ed's entry, sorry, I'll work on a different icon....

[ejlain]

You trying to ride my coat tails again Raja? (just kidding. lookin' good as usual!)

- Ed

[Mowling]

Mark...here is a revision...let me know if you would like anymore.

thanks,
M@

[excelerate]

Hi Hyp,

Thanks for these designs, and great to see you've approached from a different angle too. I have to say, at first I wasn't so keen on using the person as opposed to just a head, but the bottom right design has really grown on me. Particularly after reading what you said. You're dead right about using the whole body for learning in fact, that is a principal of accelerated learning!

Also, it looks like he's juggling stars, both of which are symbolic of accelerated learning (I held a session recently where I included basic juggling lessons). I also like the introduction of another colour (as I'm totally open to these variations).

I really like the top design. Bold and bright, good colours, professional and simple. The only thing I'm not sure of in that one is the person or people within the circle. I can't really explain myself, but can you try a version of that with just a head in it? Or something like that. Just to see how it looks?

Wasn't so keen on the next two (in comparison) - the square one isn't really the style I'm after, the one with the child and adult, although good for showing age ranges of learners, didn't have the right feel to it for me.

Of the bottom 2, as I said the one on the right is superb, and if I was going to go for that style, I preferred it over the one on the left (holding the 'e'). Better visually I thought.

The only thing I need to get straight in my mind is 'head' or 'person' in the logo. As I said, I liked it, however, I'm wondering for people who are concerned with learning and haven't thought about it to this level (so IMPACT is what I'm talking about), a head might be better to represent accelerated learning.

You might want to try any variations of that design, as it's great, or you might want to try it with a head (and not just any head, the head of an intelligent person if you can show that!).

I really love over everything the pure white background and simplicity in both. There's not much going on in the design to overwhelm, which is fantastic!

Really looking forward to see developments! Thanks Hyp!

Mark

[excelerate]

Hi Guys,

Hyp - Again great to see a different approach (the arrows), and also like the different colours, it could be something that's different like this that I end up going for. I think these particular colours might not suit the image I'm trying to put across (and the blue/grey/white might be a bit more suitable). Also, so far, I think the ideas with the head or person are more suited than the arrows. However, keep this way of thinking along different lines going!

Raja - like that one too - although would prefer it with a bit more colour (if you can get a light or bright blue in there it might just do it). Also, would be good to see it with a different font (I'm going for a modern/futuristic sort of look, whilst keeping it clear). And I love the small icon. As you said, it is a bit like Ed's, although adding a head to the design is what I expected anyway. Maybe you can come up with another icon to represent accelerated learning? If not, try a variation of the head idea...

Matt - I just had a thought about making the icon a bit smaller? So that the font is the main part of the logo, with a smaller, or more subtle icon incorporated? The icons are great. But I'm just wondering what it would look like with these different proportions. Love the new design of the circles showing movement or expansion of the brain. Excellent stuff.

Cheers guys,

Mark

[ejlain]

Hi Mark.
A different idea.

Thanks

- Ed

[Hypnosis]

hi Mark,

Thank you for your feedback, much appreciated.
Here is a "head" concept I've been playing with, I don't seem to find a better way of illustrating it by staying simple and balanced. Please tell me what you think ;)

Hyp!

[Bill]

revised designs

[Mowling]

Hello...here are some revisions...Just to let you know I keep changing the colors each time I post...just trying new colors as I go. I shrunk the Icon down abit...let me know of any other changes you would like.

thanks,
Matt

[excelerate]

Hi all,

Like the changes!

Ed - like the simplicity of these, however I've definitely decided that I would like some sort of picture icon (stand alone) as well as the text. I like the idea of a head or brain or whatever in the design. Also, I'm thinking that so far I have generally preferred upper case fonts (although should another lower case one look suitable I'd still like to see them).

Hyp - I love that font you're using. I have to say, every time I've looked at it on it's own, it's perfect. It's clear, simple, and I think looks visually stunning.

Of your new designs, I prefer the top one, although it's bordering on the slightly more complex side. I wondered if there's anyway way you can do something like this but with a smaller image? Might lose it's clarity though.

The other ideas are nice and simple, but I felt the head was a bit too big and diverted attention away from the text.

Matt - again very nice, I think I prefer the slightly bluer colour. I really like the font, and the proportions are great. I'm unsure of ideas to develop this one further. It's excellent, but I can't think how to do it differently. If you get any other variations, I'd love to see them. As I say, the original blue you used was my favourite, and it'd be good to see the font in blue and/or grey I reckon. Maybe you have another idea or two for the actual drawing of the brain itself? Or perhaps you could try it with a head?

Bill - thanks for the new design, I prefer that over the last one, as it has a more corporate feel. I'm a bit unsure of the brain itself though, it almost looks too realistic which might not go down so well with squemish people? I like the gradient on the font, but wonder if the font might be a bit too big.

********************

Good work again, and I'm gradually making some more definite decisions (bet that's a bit of a relief..). I'm certain now that I do want a design where I can pull the icon away from the text and use alone. I can do that with all of these which is great.

I've had a definite preference on a simple, clear font (without tails to the letters) and I'm certain about the grey, blue, white and black colours.

I still want simplicity over everything else, but am still looking for that killer design which represents accelerated learning better than any! And if it can represent it just by doing one simple thing, then all the better.

Bold and bright versions of my colours also tend to have more of an impact on me generally.

Excellent stuff! Thanks guys!

Mark

[Hypnosis]

Thanx for feedback Mark, I'll post something later tonight :)

Hyp!

[Hypnosis]

;) Hello again Mark,

Here is a revision based on your comments,
I tried making the visual smaller so that more attention is given to the type.

I hope you like it!

Hyp! ;)

[excelerate]

Hi Guys,

Hyp - thanks for those last ones, that does look better I think with the image slightly smaller..

EVERYONE - perhaps someone can try a variation of one of their designs trying to encorporate part of a brain neuron? (see link)

http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&lr=&...=UTF-8&q=neuron (http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&lr=&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&q=neuron)

Or something similar?

What about a head, but one facing forwards?

Thanks,

Mark

[Hypnosis]

here I shrunk it a bit more...

[Mowling]

Hello Mark...here is a revision with a different brain concept...let me know of any changes.

thanks,
Matt

[excelerate]

Hi Guys,

I think we're heading definitely where I want to be going now.

Hyp - This last set of designs is very near to what I want. They're really simple. As I said, I love the font and the bright colour. I'm not so keen on the bottom one with 2 heads. Also the one above that, the head is pointing up a bit too much, however, I like the way the blue joins on to the text. I also prefer the ones where the head faces right. The top one is perhaps a little too complex. I like it, and wonder if it can be simplified. Most importantly Hyp, you're heading in to an area which I like. I like the way the white head isn't actually there, but is suggested by the blue shaping around it. I love this idea and wonder if you can use it, together with the points below. I think I also prefer the icon to the left of the text (or middle). Can you use any of the letters to form part of that blue that suggests the white head?

Here's what I want:

Head facing right rather than left
Same blue you are using
One head only
Same font
Head facing level rather than up
Icon to left or middle
The head can be facing straight to us as a variant
Perhaps you can use 2 shades of blue in the circle to define the head shape (like you did on your very first design). I loved that design, the only thing I wasn't sure of was the actual image inside the circle.

Cheers Hyp, and well done!

Matt - This design, the colour and everything is great for impact I think. I like the brain, but wonder whether something that looks to much like a brain might put some people off...? Might be best to steer clear of that. Are you perhaps able to try a neuron or something like in the link I posted? I don't know if you're familiar with mindmaps, but they look like neurons. Both of which are relevant to accelerated learning. Might be worth trying one of those in the circle, or even bringing one into the design by some other means. Also, if you want to try an idea with a head in it, it'd be great to see. The format of this design is superb (simplicity, clarity etc). So keep with it! Good stuff!

Ed - any more revisions or ideas? You were well on track with your head designs. I love the shape and look of the head you are using. A slightly simplified version of your first few designs would be just the stuff I need!

Well done everyone,

Cheers Mark

[excelerate]

One other point that will have a heavy influence on my decision - if you are using a head in the design, perhaps you could try a few variations in the shape of the head? Whatever says, 'intelligent' or 'brainy' to you, is what I'm after! That said, they might end up looking, odd, so it's always good to have a safe desing in there too!

Thanks Mark

[DesignGeneral]

I'll have something later :)

[excelerate]

Excellent - I'm looking forward to it..!

[Hypnosis]

here is a try :)

[excelerate]

Hi Hyp,

Thanks for yet another variant - I definitely prefer the original sort of idea with an outline of a head, rather than this more photographic look. It's great to see a different idea, but I think it loses it's corporate feel.

How about doing a variant of the first design, but where it's in an oval rather than a circle? Make it thinner but keeping the same height. Also, as an experiment, can we get away with dropping the blue in the circle that defines the chin? Or will it look odd? I was thinking that we'd then just be using 2 blue shapes that when put together suggest the simple outline of a head. What do you think?

Cheers Mark

[ejlain]

Hi Mark.
A few more ideas...

Thanks,

Ed

[Hypnosis]

Really Cool one Ed! :tup:


;)


Hyp!

[ejlain]

Thanks Hyp. Just trying to keep up with ya! :D

Ed

[Hypnosis]

:( really :bash:

Hyp! ;)

[Mowling]

Mark...I had a simple alteration to my current logo...going without the brain concept and adding a head graphic to the X...which can be a stand alone symbol.
The X symbol will work well with the word Excellerate. I included a simple layout on the front of a bcard...to show you the X symbol in the background. Let me know of any revisions you would like.

thanks,
Matt

[excelerate]

Hi Guys,

Ed - that new design is great - although I'm not sure if it's got the corporate feel I want to it. It's fantastic though, that is the sort of idea I wanted in a new head design - it's futurisitc, definitely says 'accelerated learning' and I love the overall look of it. I prefer the ones without the 'E' in the head. Purely for keeping things simple. They can begin to look a bit overcrowded. So, great idea, but not sure if it's worth developing, unless you can simplify it.

This is certainly worth a stab though, as I'm sure it'll be a variation of a head design that I'll eventually go for!

Matt - again, a good variant, but I'm not sure of the overall look. It's something that could grow on me, but for now, I felt my eyes were drawn to the head too much. This is the exact sort of thinking I want in the design though, so a shot in the right area, just not quite on target. (I don't want to put you off this sort of attempt, as it's so near!)

ALL - I'm still after a good head design mixed in with a good font with very little else going on in the logo...

OR

That said, remember, it doesn't have to be a head - how about trying a design as simple as the Nike 'tick' - just a shape or 'whisp' representing 'accelerate'.

Well done, and thanks again - we're getting close to the finish line!

Mark

[excelerate]

EVERYONE,

Just had an idea that, if done well (and I'm sure you guys'll find that easy enough!) might be a winner:

How about a head design (preferably facing right) with an indication of speed applied to the head. So, for example you could have lines coming off it to the left to represent it whizzing past, or screeching to a halt, or whatever, or any other ways of showing speed...or acceleration.

And the font can just be plain (but a nice font!) with no effects applied. Just perhaps in a nice blue.

So, where in most cases so far, the speed has been applied to the text, apply it to the head only...

Actually, Raja, you had one along the lines of that, so that idea, but I'd love to see some variations.

ALSO, it would be good to see some versions with the font in a brighter bolder blue, and the image behind it in a really faint light blue and/or grey. So your eyes are drawn to the font only (and it is really clear) and subtly behind it is a head showing speed.

Anything along these lines is likely to be one of the finalists...it's exactly what I want.

Cheers guys, and keep it up as we're almost there..

Mark

[Mowling]

<!--QuoteBegin-excelerate+Mar 17 2004, 03:44 AM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (excelerate @ Mar 17 2004, 03:44 AM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteEBegin-->

I felt my eyes were drawn to the head too much. [/b][/quote]
Hey Mark...just a thought...but the head does contain that wonderful organ that all thought processess come from. :)

[excelerate]

That's true Matt - a good point - but I guess I want the main thing your eyes are drawn to, to be the word, 'excelerate'. That's why I wondered about trying any designs with the image slightly fainter than the font..

Designs of this sort are agonizingly near to what I want, if only I could spell out exactly what I want!! Everyone is doing such a good job, I guess I just need to keep seeing these excellent variants, and we'll get there!

Cheers, Mark

P.S. Are you able to try a design like the one I mentioned above? With a head representing the speed, and a normal consistent font? Coz I love the style of your work on this site!

[Mowling]

Hello...here is one using that concept. Let me know of any changes.

thanks,
Matt

[ejlain]

Hi Mark.
A few ideas based on your last feedback.

Thanks.

Ed

[excelerate]

Matt - that is fantastic. Especially your one with the black head (that has that effect of movement behind it). Although, I'd like to see that with a blue and grey head maybe too!

The font's ok, but each time you do a variation, it'd be great to see other fonts. I like simple, clear, modern and perhaps slightly curvy letters.

I may get some similar designs from anyone else, but this is definitely the direction I want to be heading now. It's taken me 2 weeks to decide that! Well done with that design..

Mark

[excelerate]

Ed - that is fantastic too! Definitely the sort of designs I want to focus on now. As you know, I love that shape of that head. That's definitely confirmed to me after seeing it, that although your last designs were superb and heading in the right direction, it is this more simple, clear look that I'm after.

The top and bottom one's are my favourite. In these particular examples, I'm not so keen on the blue shadow. I did just say to Matt that I'm after a slightly curvier font, HOWEVER, that font you have used is superb too, so looks like I'm still open on that one!

I find it really difficult to decide which I prefer between two excellent designs like your top and bottom one! So bear with me on that...I think the top one is more clear, which is a priority for me. What about trying a variant of the bottom one, but with the head and lines in a faint blue? And perhaps a more brighter blue for the font than the one you are using?

These are superb!

Keep things going along these lines!

Thanks Mark

[excelerate]

Hyp - get your version along these lines in! I don't really want my head to burst with excited confusion, but it'll be interesting to see what it feels like! - Mark

[Radu]

how about something like this?

[excelerate]

wwwzone - I like that one, but I think it would look better with a slightly different light blue? Maybe even in grey? What's the font you're using for 'learning solutions'? That's great. Also, how about doing your design again with the head nearer the left? I'd love to see it like that, as it's a great design! Thanks, Mark

[Hypnosis]

I'll have something soon!

Hyp ;)

[excelerate]

Ed - just another thought - you know I said I wasn't so keen on your middle two? It was the blue shadow. How about doing them but with a faint blue shadow, or even a grey one? I like the way the shadow suggests the shape of the head, but I felt the darkness of the shadow was a bit overpowering...great idea though, could work with a couple of alterations - Mark

[excelerate]

Thanks Hyp - looking forward to another Killer design!

[DesignGeneral]

here is my entry ;)

[excelerate]

DesignGeneral - thanks for your entry, it's different which I like, but not sure it's got the feel that I want to it. If you can do something similar that perhaps represents 'speed' a bit more, that'll probably be nearer to what I want. Looks good though, and is certainly clear. I also think the text might look better in upper case letters...Might be worth a try? Cheers Mark

[DesignGeneral]

Thanks for feedback Mark.

I'll be back :)

[excelerate]

Great stuff!

[Radu]

here are some changes. Let me know what you think.

-Ruairi

[ejlain]

Hi Mark. A few variations for you.

Thanks,

Ed

[DesignGeneral]

few variations here too :lol2:

Thinked at speed, communication input and output ;)

[Hypnosis]

Hey Mark,

I'll take you through my thinking process, tell me what you think about it :)

I know I changed the colours and the style quite a bit but I just wanted it to look cool and corporate at the same time, a very professional look and feel to it see?
My favourit is the one where the arrows join to form the "X", it kinda showing the way to excelerate learning. Well anyway, I'll be waiting for your feedback.


hyp! ;)

[excelerate]

Ruairi – thanks for these, I particularly like the text on the third one down, where the ‘x’ is taller on the right hand side. That is something worth sticking with. I’m not so sure if the head is how I’d like it though. I can’t put my finger on it, it might be that I’d prefer slightly different lines representing the speed. Do you have any other head designs, that maybe you can put more subtley in the background (maybe in a fainter blue or something?). The font is great, so definitely stick with something along those lines.

Ed – excellent variations, thanks! This is great as it’s showing what major impact a slight change can make. I actually like your darker green and black (top right) , but don’t like the light green one’s so much. I also like the alternate colours for the speed lines. The left column second one down is great too where you have used blue and grey in the head. I’m beginning to prefer the ones where the head is separate to the text (not overlapping). So, it may be worth just concentrating on this style unless I have a change of thought!

Just had an idea that might be worth a look – you know the bottom ones with the shadow… how about elongating the shadow out to the right to turn it into a sort of arrow, or draw it to a point. So that it looks almost like a sort of rocket shape (combined with the lines at the other end representing speed). So you have a sort of rocket in the image, but maintaining the white area suggesting the head. Do you know what I mean? If not let me know, and I’ll explain again! Might be something you could play around with?

Design General – thanks for these variations, they’re great, but I’m just not sure if this is going down the sort of path I want. Actually, I can think of a few of my competitors, who would love this sort of look, but I’m trying to come in at a slightly different angle. I’ve just asked some contacts of mine for feedback, and one person thought the image resembled a flower – I know that the curves represent the electrons around an atom (is that right? Trying to remember my physics from school!). Also, I might prefer a bolder brighter blue for any other designs. It’s great to see a slightly different approach though, so do keep going if you have any more ideas!

Hyp – Excellent work again! I have to admit, I Love that top design. What you’ve done with the red part of the ‘x’ is fantastic. The other designs are great again too, particularly because seeing this sort of thing gives me another edge to think about. But I’m not sure I want to go for the ‘xler8’ sort of style. I know it’s a modern/futuristic style, but I think I’d rather have the word spelt out. Also, I loved the ‘x’ idea made out of arrows too – however, I’m still thinking that I would rather perhaps a head in there one way or another to confirm to everyone that it’s about learning and the brain.

So, about that top design – the text is superb. There’s only 2 things I’m unsure of. The bottom curve is good, but I don’t know whether it would look best there or not. (So would be good to see it without too). Also, if it is there can you maybe try a variant or 2 where perhaps it doesn’t curve quite so low down (to make the overall logo not as tall). If it is slightly higher, it might almost underline the words, which could look good. That said, I like the balance of it with the other one and don’t want to lose that too! What if it went through the text slightly? I don’t know…That might be worth a try. This design is excellent, and I have a good feeling about it.

My other concern, is the head. I want a head in the design, but I’m really falling in love with the idea of keeping the logo totally simple. Ie. With not much going on. I think it needs the head, but wonder whether this design would look great without it? Can you think of any other variations to the head? Maybe not as bold as the text?

Matt - any variations or advances on that black head design you did? See my last feedback to you for some guidance.

Everyone – You can probably understand that I’m quite confused as to what to go for, because of the top quality stuff you’re all producing! I hope I’m giving you some sort of decent feedback that doesn’t leave you too confused. If not, please let me know, and I’ll try to be more specific.

While I am still open to new ideas today, tomorrow, I will list who my finalists will be, and I will give you some clear ideas of what I want based on your top designs!

I will send feedback to you at the same time of day (Sunday it may be a bit later). Monday is the big decision! I will no doubt make this decision a bit later in the day.

Good luck, and let me know asap if you need more guidance!

Cheers Mark

[Hypnosis]

Ur feedback is fine for me Mark don't worry.
I'll have something soon!

Hyp! ;)

[ejlain]

Hi Mark.
Here are the revisions based on your feedback.

Thanks

Ed

[excelerate]

Hi Guys,

FINALISTS

Thanks to everyone for their input, I've seen some fantastic designs and am getting nearer to the deadline! So just to narrow the focus now, there's only 3 people whose designs I would like to consider for winner. Ed, Matt, and Hyp, you've all produced excellent work and thanks for trying out the various alterations I've suggested.

If anyone else would like to submit something between now and Monday, you still may do so, but it's going to take a lot to get ahead of these guys now!

All 3 of you have one particular design I'm keen on. And I have to make clear, it’s extremely close between the 3 of you. I’m continuously changing my mind!

Ed - thanks for your latest. Cheers for trying the 'rocket' idea - you did it exactly as I had pictured, but I've decided it doesn't represent what I want. I like your top and bottom designs too – but my favourite design of yours is one of the top 4 which you posted on Mar 18 2004, 11:30 AM.

I like the head separated from the text, and prefer it without the shadow. This is certainly a design for me to think about as a winner. Between now and Monday, if you would like to try any other variations on this, I’d love to see them Ed!

Matt – as I’ve said I love those 3 head designs you did. I particularly like the black one with the shadowy effect adding to the look of speed. However, I’d like to see it in blue, and any other developments or alterations you want to make. Could be a winner that one! Still would like to see a different font though.

Hyp – You’ve done some amazing variations and new ideas, and as you know I love that latest one with the red ‘x’ where the top right bit is elongated and shoots off to the right. You know from my last feedback what I’d like to see…so if you get a chance before Monday, it’ll be great to see any developments.

I’m also slightly unsure about the head in that design. I like it simple, but at the same time, I wonder if you can put perhaps a bit more impact on it? One of your first designs had a sort of shinier blue. That would be worth a try, or perhaps even better, a mix of two different blues in it?

ALL 3 - Any questions or ideas to run by me, I will check later today, and again tomorrow, for my final comments before deciding on Monday!

Thanks guys, and good luck on this last leg!

Mark

[DesignGeneral]

:)

[excelerate]

DesignGeneral - thanks for those, they do look very nice - but still not quite what I'm after. Well balanced and attractive, but I'm really feeling strong about the other designs I've mentioned. If you do want to spend any more time trying anything completely different that you think will impress, then please go ahead! If not, thanks very much for your input, they've been great, just not 100% along the lines I want! Thanks very much! Mark

[DesignGeneral]

Hi Mark,

me again :tup:

[excelerate]

Wow! You're certainly going for it! I quite like that design actually, but am still thinking some of those other one's just get the edge..I'm loving your persistence though - you never know, you may suddenly hit the jackpot!

[excelerate]

EVERYONE!

Hi Guys,

I Know this is really late to be having an idea for you to play around with, but IF you get time, I'd love to see your professional versions of my dodgy attempt in the attached file. I had this idea, and have tried to get it over to you as quickly as possible, so just drew it on 'Paint'. Yeah, it will make you laugh, but do you reckon you could do anything with it anyone?

I don't know how it will look, but it might look quite cool...

I'd love to see this one if you can!

The winner will be chosen later in the day on Monday.

Thanks guys!

(See attatchment)

[DesignGeneral]

here we go ;)

[DesignGeneral]

another idea :tup:

[DesignGeneral]

Hi Mark,

let me know if u want more revisions ;)

[Hypnosis]

Mark, Im sorry. I promiss do come back with the amends asap!

hyp! ;)

[excelerate]

DesignGeneral - thanks again for those - wish I could delete my embarassing version now while yours shows the proper way to do it!

I sort of like the idea. But I'm not sure. I need to think about it for a few hours! I'm not quite so keen on the pencils. If you'd like to try any other variants on the head shape cut into the 'X', please do. On my slightly strange version, I tried to show the 'speed lines' coming off the head (which also formed the shape of the 'E'). Are you able to play around with that?

Hyp - no worries - keep going though - I'm gonna have to decide by the end of today (that'll be approximately 10 hours from me posting this message).

Cheers Mark

[excelerate]

Hyp - just to clarify in short - I'd love to see:

1. If you have time, an attempt at what I drew freehand on 'paint'
2. Your top design with the red 'x', but with a change to the bottom red line, and also any developemtns to the head. (Your first ever design used different blues, with a gradient), I thought that had perhaps more impact

Cheers Hyp!

Mark

[DesignGeneral]

Hi Mark,

Here we go :tup:

BTW, I love the 3rd one B) :tup:

[ejlain]

Hi. Here's a quick take on your idea.

Thanks

- Ed

[excelerate]

Thanks for these!

DesignGeneral - the text is looking pretty good, but I'm not sure of the pattern around the head on the icon. I'm not sure if it's the style I want. I actually really like the head cut into the 'X'. Can you maybe try it in a different blue? I prefer the text in the bottom design. As the head features in the writing, you could drop the separate icon altogether (or just include it next to the text as you have done for a graphical representation). Like I say though, I wonder if it'd just look better sitting in a circle (without the pattern?) Good design! Is defintiely one for me to think about!! Keep with it!

Ed - not sure on this one, it looks perhaps like there's too much going on. Good try on it though, and I really appreciate work. What would happen if you just switched the colour of the head from grey to white? Might be worth a look if it's easily done? Still lovin' your other head designs too if ths one doesn't work out though!

Cheers Mark

[DesignGeneral]

Hi Mark,

here are few options ;)

[DesignGeneral]

another idea :tup:

[ejlain]

Hi Mark...One more crack at it.

Thanks.

Ed

[excelerate]

DesignGeneral - Like it! Definitely prefer this blue - and also prefer the head in the simple circle. Are you able to show the head with the back of the neck coming down lower? Also, just to see what it looks like, put the 'erate' in the same blue and font as the 'excel'. Good stuff, thanks!

Hyp - any advances on yours? I'm looking forward to seeing your ammendments!

[excelerate]

Good stuff yet again Ed! I prefer the top one, but wonder whether that superb head you've done loses some of it's quality in this design. I mean, it looks fantastic on it's own, but feel it loses a bit when it's combined too much. Excellent stuff! You're all making this decision extremely hard on me! I'm giving myself another 4 hours or so until I decide. Hope that's ok with you guys!

[DesignGeneral]

here we go :tup:

[excelerate]

OK Guys,

WE HAVE A WINNER! :tup:

I have to say that's been an extremely difficult decision. And I've had quite a few people involved in helping me make it!

I'm going to go with Hyp's design (the one with the red 'x' that shoots off to the right) (and the red curve underneath it) although if it's ok with you Hyp, I'd like a few alterations (and I guess you've got held up somehow from making the revisions I suggested, so it'd be great to see them!)

So CONGRATULATIONS to Hyp!

I hope it counts for something just to let you know that Ed, your very first design became the one that made it so hard for me to decide! I know I said those other 4 you did were my favourite, but then I got focused on your very first design again...and I would have loved that to represent my company, but Hyp's design just finally got the edge.

I was really impressed with your work though Ed, so you'll be a good reason for me to come back here should I need something else done! (I'm playing with the idea of getting someone to do my website design too...do you guys do that?)

And the other one that made the decision so hard was DesignGeneral's latest efforts! Shame you didn't come into the competition earlier, as the progress you made today was fantastic. Great work, not enough time! Well done though!

And finally, Matt your last entry was great, so shame you didn't get round to doing any revisions on it - a great design though - one I'd be jealous of if I ever see a competitor own it! Well done, and thanks for your hard work..

So, thanks so much to everyone, I really appreciated your time and continuous effort, and I'll certainly come back for more as the quality of your work was superb. Let me know if you do website design etc too..

And Hyp, I guess I'll see ya in the revisions forum?

Cheers Mark ;)

[DesignGeneral]

Congrats Hyp :tup:

Thanks for the words Mark :D

[ejlain]

Congrats Hyp...and thanks, Mark, for the compliments. I had fun with this one. Good luck and all the best to you and Excelerate. Hope you tell all your friends about D.O.

- Ed

[Hypnosis]

Thanx everyone!

Thanx Mark, meet you at the revision forum.

Hyp!

[Hypnosis]

Hey Mark,

Here's a choice I worked from what you selected as the winning logo. :)

Hop it you find what youre looking for :)

Hyp!

[Hypnosis]

I made it huge so you can see the gradient effects.
No7 is my favourite one ;)

Hyp!

[excelerate]

Hi Hyp!

Nice work again - I'm finding it hard to decide! My favourites are 3,4 and 7. I think I prefer 3 and 4 for the solid blue text.

I'm not sure yet which of the red 'swish' ones I prefer. But I do like the bright light effect on the red swish in number 7.

MAybe I need to sit and think on these, but what you could do that would really help me, is work on the head in the circle? You know I mentioned that the first design you ever submitted has a mixture of shades of blue? And it looked really bright and shiny. And it included a gradient.

Are you able to bring them into the head design that sits in the circle? Somehow..?

Maybe don't worry about the text for now, as it's practically there!

What do you reckon?

Thanks Hyp, and Good Luck!

Mark

[Hypnosis]

Here Mark, I revisited my first entry and tried to encorporate it visual style to my head graphic. Its kinda rough but I think the first one works ;)

hyp!

[excelerate]

Like it Hyp - this is practically it! It looks great with more impact (being shiny and using the gradient). What would it look like with just one head in the circle? The head in white only? I love the way you've given the blue circle a sort of shiny 3-d button effect. I particularly like the bottom left bit of the dark blue circle where you can see the light bouncing off (the whiter line). Fantastic! And I like the light blue outline of the circle.

For the text, I'm 85% I'm gonna go for design 3 from your last lot. But can you put that shiny light bit on the top red 'swoosh' like you have on design 7 and 6 and can it also have a gradient on the end of the swoosh like in these (on the thin end), so it shows it shooting off into the distance?

Once that's done, I reckon that'll most probably be it!

Just one last possibility, but I don't know how long this takes. What would the blue text look like with the same shiny 3D button effect that you have on the circle? If that's too much trouble, don't worry Hyp!

Great stuff, I look forward to seeing your final designs...

Thanks Mark.

[Hypnosis]

Ok Mark, get back to you tonight :)

And, oh, sorry but I have to ask you that, where is the logo being used, I mean, is it just for a website, or is it being printed for stuff like business cards, letter heads, brochures?

thanks for the feedback ;)

hyp!

[excelerate]

Good point! It is for the website, but also it will definitely be for business cards, stationary, letter heads and brochures too.

Hope that's ok!

Cheers Hyp!

Mark

[Hypnosis]

It should be fine, I'm just trying to see how I can make you save on colours when you will use it on printed materials. :)

Hyp!

Catch you later Mark

[Hypnosis]

Here you go mark, I made the logo 2 colour so you save on printing :)
Waiting for feedback :)


Hyp!

[excelerate]

Excellent Hyp - that's good of you to point out the colours thing, I wasn't even aware of that!

I really appreciate those revisions you've done, and I know what I want now. You're probably getting a bit annoyed with my mind changing, but what I want has pretty much been done by you, it just needs building together!

After feedback from other people, I'm going to go for design 4, not design 3 (out of your numbered designs a few entries back). It's the one with the blue and red in the 'x' and the swoosh lines going in the same direction.

I'll take it as it is aswell (without you having to put the light effect on the red swoosh).

The final head you've done is superb. If it's not much hassle, are you able to position the head in the centre of the circle so I can see what that looks like? If you can, I'll decide which of those 2 I prefer!

And that'll be it Hyp! I'll be a happy man! Sorry I keep coming back with things, you've done a fantastic job, it's just me being indecisive!

Thanks Hyp, and this will be the last bit of work to do on it - I promise!

Cheers Mark

[Hypnosis]

Hey Mark,

Don't feel guilty man, your the client, your the boss. I just can't imagine how fussy I would be if I were in your place :) (This is not a reason to push it more ;))
Its great working with you anyway, beleive me I've seen much worst Don't worry-
I'll be back with what you requested tonight :)

Hyp!

[excelerate]

Nice one Hyp!

Look forward to it as always..

Cheers Mark :D

[Hypnosis]

here Mark,

Hope thats what you had in mind :)

hyp!

[excelerate]

Fantastic Hyp!

Really appreciate all your work! That's great. I don't know what you're able to send me now, but my favourite then, is the top one of the last 2 you did (the 'x' with the red and the blue swoosh lines), and I think my favourite head is the central one (although if you're able to send both I guess I can spend as long as I like deciding?) If you're not, no worries.

I know nothing about the various formats that you can send it to me, but I guess, if you just send it so that it gives me as much scope and flexibility as possible, that'll be great.

And finally, how exactly do you get them to me?!!

Cheers Hyp!

Mark

[Hypnosis]

Hi Mark,

Im glad the logo reaches your satisfaction, I will send you the file trough E-mail (I need you to give me te address :)). The format will be an EPS vector (So you can open it trough Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Macromedia Freehand) I know this is probably chinese to you but it will be useful for the one working on the files.

I'll send it to you once I get your address.

Thanx for everything Mark, it was fun working with you and I hope to see you soon.
Dont forget to tell your friend about DesignOutpost ;)

Hyp!