Accidental design occurs when a designer unintentionally creates something that resembles another existing design, object, or concept. In the context of a logo, this can happen if the logo inadvertently resembles another logo, symbol, or even an unrelated image or idea. This can occur due to subconscious influences, coincidental similarities, or the sheer simplicity of certain shapes and forms.
It’s important for designers to conduct thorough research and review their designs to minimize the likelihood of accidental design, especially in the highly visual and symbolic field of logo creation.
However, this approach can also be controversial and may backfire if it offends or alienates portions of the audience. It requires careful consideration of the brand’s image, market, and cultural sensitivities.
In the following example, an e-commerce website in India named Myntra went through several brand identity changes. And in the process, it carelessly created a brand identity that did much harm to its image.
In 2o11 Myntra redesigned its brand identity to look more organic tropical and feminine. It was not until 2020 when Myntra redesigned their logo again to be just the letter M that it drew attention. Naaz Patel, the founder of an NGO called Avesta Foundation filed a complaint in December 2020 that the logo was “insulting and offensive” towards women. change its logo after a Mumbai-based activist complained to the state cyber police, alleging that the company’s signage was “insulting and offensive” towards women resembling a naked woman’s lower part.
“The Mumbai Cyber police found the logo prima facie insulting towards women, which led to the meeting between the police and the e-commerce website. Myntra changed the logo within a month of the complaint and also replaced it everywhere wherever the logo of the company needed to be put.” Here is an article that covers the story: https://blog.ipleaders.in/myntra-trade-mark-change-overhyped/
Imagine the cost of it as well as the ramifications on the brand as a whole.
Engaging small focus groups can be an effective way to gather targeted feedback and mitigate risks associated with potential design choices. By involving a select group of individuals who represent your target audience, you can gain valuable insights into how your designs are perceived and whether they align with your brand’s image and values. This approach allows you to identify any potential pitfalls early on and make necessary adjustments before rolling out your designs to a wider audience.
