The Worst Professional Sports Team Logo in North America

I mentioned previously in this space that I appreciate good design.

Nowhere is good, smart design more apparent than in the professional sports team logo.

We know that professional sports is big business in North America. And it should come as no surprise then that the teams generate profits from the sales of merchandise. Merchandise with their logo figured prominently.

An attractive, professionally-designed logo is important!

Yet it amazes me how few teams put serious thought into their logos. Or they try to skimp entirely on the endeavour.

Here is an example of what I think may quite possibly be the worst professional sports team logo in North American professional sports:

What were the people running this organization -- the Winnipeg Jets hockey team -- thinking? This is supposed to represent a hockey team? It looks like an airline. Or something representing the Canadian military.

Downright awful.

Here is my all-time fave:

You can tell these people -- the New York Rangers hockey team -- spent some money here. A lot of money. This logo oozes beautiful design. This wasn't designed by some local six-grader contest.

Whaddya think?

Do you have a favorite sports team logo? 

Once in a While a Picture Comes Along . . .

I must admit that I have been feeling a little weary lately.

A few complaints can wear you down.

I understand it. I liked to complain a lot when I was a teenager.

Nevertheless, at times it depresses you when you think that you are trying to do something positive.

It makes you question things. Is BECA -- this dream of mine -- really needed here in Nicaragua?

And then a beautiful picture comes along . . .

BECA graduate Seferina Amador with Family (February 2013)

. . . to remind you that it is all worthwhile.

This photo was taken by one of our Coordinators recently at the graduation ceremony of BECA student Seferina Amador (and now Nursing Technician!)

I'm assuming the gentleman in the foreground is Seferina's father, but it could be an uncle. It doesn't really matter.

Look at that face! The satisfaction. The joy. The pride.

Do you see what I see?

Congratulations, Seferina. We know what a supreme challenge it was for you to finish.

Thanks, Seferina. For helping me understand what this BECA thing is all about.

Loving Good Design

Some companies take the time to think before they produce something.

We are talking about a mentality.

And that mindest translates into a product family that is well-designed.

The classic modern-day example is Apple and their ipods, iphones, and ipads.

How can you tell a well-designed product when you see one?

For me the answer lies in the ease-of-use of the product (or service).

That is, the manufacturer has taken into consideration every minute detail before launch.

The details matter!

The same applies to a non-profit organization like ours, BECA.org,  and the programs we offer and the projects we execute.

I try to impress upon our team that excellence is found in the details.

I am happy to say that they are responding.

And I can now direct more of my love of design on our very own initiatives instead of elsewhere.