Field Notes Inside an Integrated Communications Agency

For the most part, candidates need help with their campaign logos.

Hillary:Classic typeface, tastefully used, red, white and blue–no surprises there. That sweet little flag screams craft store, though. No last name used, Hmm.

Obama:Simple, elegant, concise. With an unusual name like Obama, an O is a perfect choice. The flag ground mimics Middle America and a road towards a brighter day. The top of the O resembles a rainbow or bridge with a dawning sun in the center. Type choice is elegant and not as clunky as Hillary’s. He’s got some Web 2.0 action going on, but the O works. Plus it looks like a patriotic donut.

McCain:John, John, John…You’re not running for sheriff of Hazzard County.

Romney:The mark is elegant but predictable. Haven’t we seen that whole eagle flag thing before? It’s kind of sharp at the end. That scares me. Batman could use it as a grappling hook, though.

Friends—Let’stalk about the issues, put aside our differences and focus on change. Most candidates need better design. They’re missing an opportunity to distinguish themselves. Barack Obama is declared the winner in this race. His mark shows hope, change, freshness, imagination and clarity. Note: The declaration of winner is based on early polling from an audience of one.

What do you think?