Tulsa County unveiled their new logo this past May. (Note that their website needs a lot of work!) The logo is a step up from their old one, but many Tulsa County residents are expressing their disdain for spending the funds to implement the new logo. The County saved several thousand dollars by having all research, ideas, and designing done by their in-house designer, but they do still have to create new letterhead, business cards, vehicle graphics and signage.

What the naysayers don’t understand, though, is the need for businesses to stand out and increase marketing efforts during tough economic times. Tulsa County is a business just like any other – they just serve in a public capacity. I personally think the decision was an excellent one, as Tulsa County is in dire need of competent, skilled employees. Part of attracting those employees is the County’s image. They need to appear updated and modern to be attractive to educated job seekers.

I don’t think the logo is as beautiful as those from some other cities, but we also don’t have the budget for that. We did the best with what we have.

Granted, Tulsa does need money spent on projects to improve roads, etc., but that is where city spending comes into play – not county. Come on, guys! The logo had been in use for over 40 years! It is time for Tulsa to show its true colors!

If you shop a Walmart like millions of Americans do, you may have noticed Walmart’s “Great Value” brand has gotten a facelift. They’re new look not only feels more modern, but also looks more upscale.

In a press release on March 16, 2009, Wal-Mart explains how the downturn in the economy led them to redesign their brand to appeal to a wider market. More and more Americans are pinching pennies and looking for ways to save. Walmart hopes these people will turn to Great Value.

Not only did the outdated logo get a new look, but the products and packaging also underwent dramatic changes. Products were submitted to rigorous market testing, while packaging was reduced when possible to maintain the company’s sustainability commitments.

Walmart isn’t the only major retailer that saw an opportunity for growth during tough times. Target has also revamped its store brand to maintain consistency and recognition throughout the entire store. Target’s marketing campaign for Up & Up boasts that they carry over 600 products for under five bucks.

Did Target do the right thing by rebranding? Check out this blog post for an interesting take on the matter.

Personally, I think the brand change by both companies was a smart move. Both logos were outdated and inconsistent. Now both are clean, crisp and recognizable.

In my opinion, this was a great time to spend the budget on a revamp. People are saving more and spending less, and store brands are key to many a household budget.

If you’re thinking about rebranding to appeal to an audience that might use your product now when they never have before, follow these two giants’ lead and jump into the waters of change!

Muahhhhahhahahaha! The transformation is complete! That’s right – our blog redesign is complete! I’m glad it’s over. It’s harder to design for my own buisness than for my clients. I’m my own worst critic!

Anyway, it was a good way to make a slow summer more productive.

Not sure about the colors of your new brand? Check out this nifty little tool: Color Scheme Designer

It can help you pick out various color schemes to show your designer. Remember, though, this is not for print colors – only web colors. Your designer will need to match the proper print color, and some blues and reds will not properly translate into print. Just keep in mind that you have to be flexible!

Have fun and happy coloring!

Mad Hatter Design Co. is proud to announce the launch of another fab Virtual Assistant service, Diamond Virtual Services!

The wonderful Erika Meiser of Diamond Virtual Services wanted an elegant and professional logo and website that included her chosen colors. Erika’s eggplant and cocoa color combo is a sure-fire winner! Erika’s site also includes some cool features like live chat and embedded video!Also, be sure to check out her blog!

Thanks for a fun project, Erika! We look forward to seeing your success in 2009!

KathyCrofoot.com actually launched a while back, and I was slacking in my launch announcements! Please forgive me!

Kathy’s logo and site have been an absolute joy to develop. Her style and and personality truly show through in her unique logo design.

Kathy asked me to use some special lettering to develop a font for her logo. It’s the Kathy Font! If you haven’t read her About Page to hear the story of her logo, you definitely should!

Kathy’s site is Wordpress-based, and includes a blog section. It’s bright, uplifting, and truly unique!

Thanks, Kathy! It’s been a pleasure!