Graphic Design Contests

**blake** · 05-28-2006, 05:41 PM

Since this is what this section is all about, cehck out this article on the down side of contests…

http://www.no-spec.com/?page_id=38

I would like to hear people's opinions on this.

**gringo** · 05-28-2006, 06:08 PM

I think the author of the article is over analysing. Sure contest holders are missing out on the benefits of a (long term) business relationship, but how important is that when 'all' they want is a logo. I've seen plenty of successful contests where the contest holder has come away with a really nice looking logo, and I've seen contests that have ended with no winner - nothing lost there for the contest holder. From the contest participant's perspective though, it really is a big risk (unless you're doing it for fun or a learning experience) if you invest a lot of time and effort into creating a design. Often there are many designers competing against each other, and there can only be one winner.

As someone who does take part in design competitions, I can say I do it for fun and to try and improve my skills - it's not my livelihood so I don't mind the fact that I never win

Interesting post blake, what do you think?

**vangogh** · 05-28-2006, 10:58 PM

I'll agree with the article in the sense that I think there's more to a logo than just the look which is mostly what you'll get with a contest. Having a relationship with the designer can lead to a logo that will better promote your brand and your business.

I don't see anything wrong though with the contests as long as the business is aware that they will probably get a better logo working with a given designer. The contest idea is about saving money and in the end you do get what you pay for. You may still find a great logo through a contest, but chances are you'll get a better one paying to have a designer spend the time to work on your logo.

For the logo designer participating in the contest I agree completely with gringo. There is the risk of spending time with no money in return, but as long as you approach it as something fun to do or a way to practice and improve your skills it's a great idea. In fact I think it's actually more beneficial to the designer for the practice than for the business.