Squarespace logo design

Squarespace, a website platform and tech podcast sponsor, recently launched a logo design tool enabling users to create their own logos. This prompted backlash from design professionals who argued it undermines quality design work.

The author views this as a strategic business move. Squarespace targets small businesses with limited budgets who cannot afford professional designers. The platform's templates are well-designed and user-friendly, making it difficult to create poor-quality websites. As the piece notes, "Often the only bad part of a Squarespace website is what the site owners decide to put in it, for example; their logo."

The Ikea Comparison

The author compares this to furniture retail: most people find Ikea products satisfactory for their needs. Similarly, Squarespace provides "well built, simple design at a price that is unbelievable for what you get."

The platform addresses a genuine gap. Many small business websites previously created by freelance developers look outdated or non-functional. Squarespace's responsive, modern templates represent an improvement for budget-conscious business owners.

Impact on Professional Designers

The author argues the tool does not threaten competent designers. It targets those who might otherwise use MS Paint for logos. While acknowledging market overlap, the piece frames this as technological progress—a historical pattern across industries.

The recommendation to skilled designers: learn Squarespace and offer onboarding services, as technical knowledge remains valuable despite automation.