Logo Contest

Context Parameters

End of contest on 20th of March?

Registered members (or discuss list?) vote. If there is a tie, board vote breaks the tie. Board will have a veto to not allow an entry based on suitability (infringes on another logo, etc.).

Logo in General

The logo should be submitted in a vector format. Avoid images because we need to be sure that the logo can be blown up for a large banner. In the same spirit, the logo should be capable of a small icon-sized representation. The logo may be in color, but should also look good in gray scale, and should be visible against both white and black backgrounds.

A great example of what we need can be found at joomla.org where they have a complete branding manual that you may use as a reference: http://www.joomla.org/content/view/259/70/

Logos should be submitted as a single icon, and icon with the foundation and/or site name. The site name should be written as OSGeo or OSGeo.org.

Stick to the web safe colors and if you are a good web designer, submit a color swatch for use in branding the site. One of the many great references can be found here:

* http://www.lynda.com/hex.html
* http://www.stone.com/java/cc/
* http://the-light.com/netcol.html
* http://www.visibone.com/swatches/
* http://www.kolur.com/oct6/galindex.php
* http://www.colormix.com/
* http://www.colorblender.com/

Banner Logo

Size matters. Since the banner is on every page, we would prefer a short logo verses a tall one. Length is more flexible, but we should be careful about the login/register links in the top right of the banner area. Because of the need to stretch, the logo should be compatible with a neutral background or tiled background.

The banner should include the foundation or site URL name. Optionally a motto or descriptive saying under the name. It is agreed by most the board that a descriptive line is not necessary.

URL Logo

Most browsers support a small graphic on the URL. This helps in bookmarking. It is also required in the Collabnet Tool (it throws pesky errors if not there). This is also called a FavIcon. Here is a site that generates a simple one: http://antifavicon.com/

Other Logos

There are lots of uses for logos. Once you have thought one up see if it works with other uses. Do not be afraid of creating several logos that meet different needs for size, height, and width. Look up US and international trademark guidelines if you are really industrious.

OSGeo.org Member button - for use by individuals on cards, websites, etc. Name badges Splash Screens for member client applications Logos for future contests Logos for banners t-shirts, mugs, etc.