What's a meme? A meme is a logo that does more than just portray an image. With a logo, you must brand it to make it into a house hold name. A logo can not stand on its own to tell people about your business. The Nike Swoosh, for example, is a logo. If Nike had not invested millions of dollars in branding the logo with billboards, television ads, and sports stars, no one would know that a swooshing design meant athletic shoes.

Memes are different from logos because they can stand on their own. They represent a whole idea with a simple combination of the right words and the right pictogram. A great example of a successful meme is the one used by Burger King. You don't need years of advertising fed to you to figure out that when you see that meme, it means there is a place to eat near by. When you use a meme, your marketing efforts become considerably easier and less expensive. You no longer have to spend a great deal of your marketing budget on marketing your logo. Your meme will do the marketing for you.

Memes are a relatively new marketing idea based on a very old concepts. People were able to draw pictures to portray ideas before they were able to communicate verbally. The best way to test your meme is to present it to strangers and ask them what they see. If they do not get the concept of your business that you are trying to portray, try again. Memes are much harder to create than graphic logos, but it will be well worth the effort. Because your meme will portray your business concept, you will not have to spend millions of dollars to connect the design with your product or service.

Key Points to Keep in Mind when you are Designing Your Meme

• Keep it simple! Try to use only two to three colors, simple imagry and stay away from complex geometric designs.

• Make your idea clear. Think of three words that describe your business. What is the first image that comes to your mind when you think about those words? That image is a good starting point for your meme.

• Get a second opinion. If a random stranger you ask is confused or unsure about your meme, go back to the drawing board.

• Don't try to be an artist. If your design is too artistic, it will become a logo and not a meme.

• Consult a professional. Professional Designers have years of experience under their belt and will be able to help guide you in creating your meme. Creating your meme is one of the most important steps in establishing your business, so the cost of seeking professional assistance is well worth it!

Memes are new and innovative. They are a great way to make your business stand out and to draw people in. Even if you have a logo, adding a meme to your advertising and branding is highly recommended.