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As we move into 2024, the landscape of branding continues to evolve, bringing new insights and approaches. For those keen on staying ahead of the curve, we’ve curated a list of must-read branding books releasing this year. Each book offers a unique perspective, from practical design processes to psychological insights, ensuring there’s something for every branding enthusiast.
As we continue to navigate the ever-changing world of branding, these books (will) offer fresh perspectives and actionable insights. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, these recent and upcoming publications promise to enrich your understanding and practice of branding in 2024.
Best Branding Books to Look for in 2024 (so far)
1. Identity Designed: The Process: Research, Strategy, Design, Implementation
Author: David Airey
Publication date: April 30, 2024
David Airey, a renowned figure in graphic design, brings us Identity Designed: The Process: Research, Strategy, Design, Implementation. This book is a deep dive into the essential stages of design: research, strategy, design, and implementation. Airey’s experience shines through as he blends practical advice with case studies from top design studios, offering an invaluable resource for those involved in crafting visual identities. Perfect for students, professionals, and design enthusiasts alike, this book is a roadmap for creating compelling and strategic brand identities.
Author: Laura Busche
Publication date: November 17, 2023
Brand Psychology by Laura Busche stands at the intersection of psychology, design, and marketing. This book explores the psychological underpinnings of brand development, blending academic insights with practical applications. Busche, with her background in business and design, navigates the reader through the complexities of brand building in the digital age, making it an essential read for brand strategists and marketing professionals.
3. Designing Brand Identity, 6th edition
Authors: Alina Wheeler and Rob Meyerson
Publication date: January 24, 2024
The sixth edition of Designing Brand Identity by Alina Wheeler and Rob Meyerson is a timely update to the best-selling guide on branding. This edition addresses the challenges of the 2020s, where technology and societal changes have transformed the branding landscape. The book offers a deep dive into branding fundamentals, strategies, and processes, making it an essential roadmap for creating sustainable and successful brands. With over 100 subjects, fresh case studies, and insights into artificial intelligence and social justice in branding, this edition is an invaluable resource for professionals and students alike. Wheeler and Meyerson’s expertise and comprehensive approach make this book a must-have for anyone navigating the complexities of contemporary brand development.
4. Pentagram: Living by Design
Author: Adrian Shaughnessy
Publication date: November 21, 2023
Adrian Shaughnessy offers an in-depth exploration of Pentagram’s journey in Pentagram: Living by Design. This two-volume work covers the storied history and current achievements of this influential design group. From the original founders to the contemporary partners, Shaughnessy’s detailed analysis and rich visual content provide a unique perspective on Pentagram’s impact on the design world. This book is a treasure trove for design aficionados and historians alike.
5. Logos that Last: How to Create Iconic Visual Branding
Author: Allan Peters
Publication date: November 7, 2023
In Logos that Last: How to Create Iconic Visual Branding, Allan Peters shares his extensive experience in logo design. The book is a comprehensive guide, offering insights into creating logos that endure over time. It includes case studies, practical tips, and Peters’s creative process, making it a must-read for designers and brand strategists. Peters’s expertise offers a new lens to view logo design, blending creativity with strategic thinking.
6. Universal Principles of Branding: Volume 6
Author: Mark Kingsley
Publication date: November 14, 2023
Mark Kingsley’s Universal Principles of Branding: Volume 6 is a comprehensive guide featuring 100 key concepts essential for modern branding. This visually rich book combines practical definitions with real-world applications, making complex branding principles accessible to everyone. Kingsley’s critical and humorous approach demystifies branding, making it a valuable resource for students and professionals.
7. Make a Living Designing Logos
Author: Ian Paget
Publication date: November 5, 2023
Ian “Logo Geek” Paget’s first book, Make a Living Designing Logos, is more than just a design manual; it’s a narrative of turning passion into profession. Through personal stories and effective strategies, Paget guides aspiring logo designers on how to build a successful career. This book is an inspiring journey into the logo design industry, packed with practical tips and resources.
8. Designing Brands: A Collaborative Approach
Editor: Mario Depicolzuane
Publication date: January 23, 2024
Designing Brands: A Collaborative Approach, edited by Mario Depicolzuane, is a masterclass in creating elegant and timeless brand identities. This book navigates through the intricacies of brand development, from discovery to digital and physical design, providing a step-by-step approach. Depicolzuane, a Croatian-born art director and founder of Studio8585, brings his extensive experience in working with top-tier clients to offer readers an insightful guide into designing brands with grace and rationality. This book is a treasure trove for anyone keen on understanding the collaborative dynamics of contemporary brand design.
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