A Logo is Not a Brand

In this video I break down one of the most misunderstood topics in branding: the difference between a logo, a visual identity, a brand identity, a brand, and branding itself. I walk through a simple visual framework I’ve used for years to help founders, designers, and marketers explain what branding actually is and why a logo alone isn’t enough.

If you’ve ever struggled to articulate the value of brand work, this one’s for you.

I’ve linked a free download of the graphic below. Feel free to use it with clients, teams, or students.

Download the graphic:
https://themadebyjames.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/MBJ-Branding-Graphic.jpg

Timestamps:
00:00 – Why I’m making more YouTube videos (and ranting a bit)
00:56 – The branding framework graphic I’ve used for years
01:54 – Why branding education gets overcomplicated
02:34 – Logo vs visual identity vs brand identity explained
03:04 – What a logo actually is (and the types of logos)
04:52 – What makes up a visual identity
05:44 – The six core elements of a brand’s identity
06:29 – Sensory and sonic branding (and a small rant)
08:27 – How brand identity shapes a brand’s reputation
09:13 – Final recap: how all the pieces fit together
10:24 – Downloading the graphic + final thoughts


Questions or thoughts? drop them in the comments or email me at mbj@themadebyjames.com.

Don't forget to sign up for my newsletter for weekly tips on design, creativity, and branding: https://themadebyjames.com/freebies/the-mbj-newsletter/

Enjoy the video!

MBJ
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