Know-How Exchange : Other

Depending on how the logos are copyrighted, trademarked, and where they are registered, it is most likely your legal obligation to request permission prior to use.

Outside of legal obligation, I would suggest, as an exercise in good ethics, that you contact them regardless.

You would most likely rather know now, than later, that your client does not wish you to use their logo on your site (for whatever fundamental, strategic, or image related reasons they may have), and at your prompting, as opposed to self-discovery.

In most cases, they are likely to reply in the affirmative, and give you permission, and in the other case, they will appreciate the level of respect you demonstrate in asking. Remember, they are the client, and it is your duty (inasmuch as you want them to remain clients) to bear the efforts of maintaining the relationship.

As an additional plus, it gives you a reason to reach out to them, which is always to your benefit, keeping communication channels open, and potentially stirring repeat business interest. Nothing beats being top of mind with your customers when they discover a need...and communication of any sort helps to keep you in that position.

I hope that helps!

Ryan

Ryan Rutan
Branding Brainiac
skype:ryanrutan

Dear Susie,

One way around this might be to simply use the company names, not their logos. Logo use works really well if you're promoting the fact that your service has been featured on a TV network, or in a newspaper. But when logos are used simply for the sake of using them, then things can become a little cluttered visually.

When using anyone else's logo two things matter just as much as permission: size and clarity.

Yes, although it's not MANDATORY to ask for permission to use a client's logo, it's both polite to do so, AND it's good business practice. Clarity and size-wise, take the time and trouble to ensure you stick to any logo use guidelines, AND that you ensure the logo is legible. There's nothing worse in logo usage than a shapeless lump on a page where the logo has been reduced and reduced and reduced AND where a logo is being used from a copy of a copy of a copy.

The other thing is this: your use of a logo IMPLIES endorsement
of or relationship with that company for the viewer. If no such relationship or endorsement exists the logo in question must not be used, ever. If you mess with or use a logo where you have less than a stellar relationship with a client, you might find yourself on the wrong end of a cease and desist notice.

So ask for permission, get the best quality version of the logo you can lay your hands on (NO scanning of logos from letterheads or business cards!), and be truthful.

I hope this helps. Good luck to you.

Gary Bloomer
The Direct Response Marketing Guy™
Wilmington, DE, USA