Mini Case Study: Microsoft Logo Redesign

Hello everyone!

#UIX101 task #052 completed.

In this task, a logo design was required. I chose #Microsoft for the #redesign. Because, despite the numerous and comprehensive changes in the company's policies and the launch of new products, no changes had been made in the company logo for a long time. Here is my case study:

The Microsoft logo has evolved significantly since the company's founding in 1975. From its initial simple design to today's modern and dynamic logo, each iteration reflects Microsoft's transformation and growth.

One of the most iconic elements of the logo is the "O" letter, introduced in 1982 and known as "Blibbet." This letter coincided with the launch of the #Windows operating system and symbolized Microsoft's leading position in the technology industry. In 2012, the logo was transformed into a simpler and more minimalist design.

The Microsoft logo is more than just a company logo; it's a symbol that tells the company's story and reflects its values.

When I researched the brand image on the internet, I came across a few keywords: Strong, innovative, iconic, high quality, accessible, reliable, various. So, I had to take these features into consideration when designing.

Assessment

From Simplicity to Complexity: The first logos were simple and handwritten, becoming more complex and sophisticated over time.

Use of Color: The first logos were black and white, the use of color increased over time.

Font: The first logos used a sans-serif font, but different fonts were tried over time.

Iconicity: Some logo elements have become iconic, such as the letter "Blibbet".

Ideation 🚀

1st Design Idea

In my first logo attempt, I wanted to move away from the Windows look. But the brand has an identity and we should not stray too far from that identity. The design should change, but users should not find it strange when they see it. For this reason, I decided to carry out the development on the existing logo.

2nd Design Idea

I tried gradient on the logo in use. I thought that I could also convey the message that the company has integrated applications with gradient colors.

3rd Design Idea

In recent years, Microsoft has started to make a name for itself with its open source projects. In the past, Microsoft has been more cautious about open source software, and in some cases has even filed lawsuits against projects it sees as competitors. That's why this is a very important change for the company and I thought it would be good to include it in the logo. Thus, the idea of adding transparency to the logo was born.

4th Design Idea

At this stage, I thought of adding the 3rd dimension to the logo to emphasize that the company has an innovative and dynamic structure.

5th Design (Final Design)

The design is ready for presentation. In this logo design, Microsoft's innovative, dynamic and extroverted aspects, as well as preserving its traditional values, were emphasized. The four sections of the logo were presented in the form of a directional sign to explain that it also has a direction that guides technology.

The main colors in the existing logo were the colors from the Windows era. Over time, they released many products. Some of these products work integrated with each other. Therefore, I tried to explain that the clear distinction is not the same as before and now they have other colors too.

There were attempts to change the text section in the past, but these were short-term changes. They stayed with the minimalist design for a long time. It is independent of the era and the customers seemed to like this design better. That's why I only made a small font change in the redesigned logo.

I'm looking forward to your feedback!

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