Expensive Mistake – Losing Your Logo Artwork
One of the expensive and sad things that occasionally occurs with clients is losing track of their original logo artwork. When the original artwork is lost, that means having to recreate the logo and that can be expensive.
Usually if a logo has gone missing – one of two things has occurred.
- The graphic designer didn’t forward the original artwork files and the client can’t get a hold of them.
- Client received the files but they lost them due to switching computers or didn’t understand they needed to keep all the formats. Ouch.
If you don’t have the artwork files and you can get a hold of your graphic designer/firm who did the artwork, be sure to collect them. It is not their responsibility to store them for you.
Formats You May Need
Whenever you need print artwork or a website redesign, you will need to get your hands on your logo files. These are the formats you will need.
- Vector format of the logo in Illustrator (ends with .ai) which is ideal – if not that then a file format ending in .eps.
- PDF booklet if one was provided. Many designers include a booklet specifying the Pantones and color specs, font names, and pictures of logo versions (a horizontal and a stacked version).
- Font files or information specifying the name of your logo fonts if lettering exists. If you received a PDF booklet that may be indicated in there. If not, make a quick Word doc and put that information down for reference. You will be asked for font names and logo colors from your designers. Vector files don’t always include font information.
- JPG versions are nice but this can’t be used as original artwork – it is for your usage for online media (which may not include your website) and Powerpoints for example. You will have many needs for the jpg logo versions – just keep in mind this doesn’t work for print and original artwork needs.
Keeping these file versions and information handy is crucial for your marketing and communication needs. It is also good business practice and just plain handy to have when the need comes up.
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