The concept “system of shapes” may sound too formal and even a bit daunting to digest, but it is just a way of saying that any design can contain simple, repeated visual elements.
Finding the subject for the logo is just the beginning. Even with the simplest concepts, such as a single-letter monogram, there is virtually no end to ways of drawing each letter or subject.
When using a system of shapes, one can impose a grid to reconstruct the image. Grids are handy for seeing relationships, measurements and angles. The grid can employ curved corners or not. Sometimes a particular curve or shape can be repeated to good effect. Those shapes could even come from the type font of the accompanying signature. Systems of shapes can be stylized, curvilinear, rectilinear, distorted, geometric or blended into some unique overall confining shape. The possibilities are endless, and surprisingly simple once you dissect them. As you begin to look for them, you will see all sorts of different visual systems for making logos. It can be helpful to collect them for future reference.
One easy method for getting the hang of this technique is to look at an existing logo. To avoid plagiarism, don’t use the same subject; just copy the style or system of shapes. Now construct your image using that style. Voilà! A new and unique design.
you are not plagiarizing.
Adapted from Logo Design Theory: How Branding Design Really Works