How can I prepare a logo for BIMI/VMC without using Adobe Illustrator?

Key findings

• SVG is text-based: SVG files are essentially XML text files, which means they can be opened and edited with a standard text editor like Notepad. This allows for manual adjustments to elements, colors, or cleanup, especially for simpler logos.
• Specialized conversion tools exist: The BIMI Group provides an official SVG conversion tool that can help prepare an existing SVG file to meet the specific BIMI SVG Tiny P/S format requirements.
• Open-source alternatives: Software like GIMP can export images as SVG, though it may require additional steps or cleanup to ensure the output meets BIMI standards. It serves as a viable alternative for initial vectorization or conversion.
• Complexity matters: Logos with complex features, such as gradients, can be challenging to convert or edit manually outside of professional vector graphics software, potentially leading to a loss of visual fidelity.

Key considerations

• Vectorization is essential: Regardless of the tool used, your logo must be in a vector format (SVG) as pixels are not suitable for BIMI. If you only have raster images (JPEG, PNG), vectorization is the first critical step.
• Adherence to SVG tiny p/s: BIMI requires a specific subset of the SVG Tiny 1.2 format, known as SVG Tiny Portable/Secure (P/S). This specification limits certain elements and features, meaning a standard SVG might still need adjustments. Our guide on SVG dimensions and creation can provide further insight.
• Validation is crucial: After any conversion or editing, it's vital to validate your SVG file to ensure it meets all BIMI and VMC requirements. Tools are available for this purpose, which are highlighted in our guide to validating your BIMI SVG.
• Consider professional help for complex logos: If your logo is highly intricate or contains features that are difficult to replicate or simplify in alternative tools, engaging a design professional (even for a quick fix) might save time and ensure accuracy, as noted by DigiCert.

Key opinions

• Manual editing feasibility: Many marketers find that if they already have an SVG file, they can open it in a basic text editor (like Notepad) and make necessary edits to comply with BIMI specifications.
• Leveraging existing vector formats: If a logo exists in other vector formats such as .ai (Adobe Illustrator), .eps, or .pdf, it should be possible to export it as a standard SVG file using appropriate software (even if not Illustrator itself), as suggested by Tower Marketing.
• Official tools are a lifesaver: The BIMI Group’s standalone SVG conversion tool is highly recommended by marketers for refining existing SVG files to meet the precise BIMI Tiny P/S format, making the process much easier without needing complex design software.
• Open-source software as a bridge: Some marketers have successfully used open-source tools like GIMP to export images as SVG, though they acknowledge that extra steps may be involved to ensure compliance.

Key considerations

• Initial SVG availability: The feasibility of non-Illustrator methods largely depends on whether an SVG version of the logo is already available. If the logo is only in a raster format (like JPEG or PNG), vectorization remains the primary challenge.
• Learning curve for text editing: While SVGs are text files, understanding the XML structure and specific BIMI requirements (such as removing certain elements or scripts) can have a learning curve for those unfamiliar with code editing.
• Potential need for minimal designer input: Even with conversion tools and text editing, some complex logos might require a quick review or minor adjustment by a designer to ensure perfect compliance or to fix subtle rendering issues, as highlighted in BIMI implementation guides.
• Validating compliance: After any manual or tool-based conversion, it’s crucial to validate the SVG against BIMI specifications. Marketers should use BIMI SVG validation tools to confirm the logo is ready for VMC and BIMI display.

Key opinions

• SVG as plain text: Experts emphasize that an SVG file is essentially a text file containing drawing instructions. This fundamental characteristic allows users to open and modify the file directly in any text editor, making minor adjustments or cleanups possible without specialized software.
• Challenges with complexity: Logos featuring gradients or other complex visual effects pose a greater challenge for non-Illustrator preparation. Experts note that simplifying or working around these elements might be necessary, potentially leading to a slight compromise in visual 'sheen' but maintaining trademark compliance.
• BIMI Group's tool is valuable: The official BIMI Group conversion tool is identified as a highly effective resource for correctly formatting an existing SVG to the required SVG Tiny P/S specification. This tool streamlines the process, reducing the need for manual text editing or professional software for most cases.
• Historical context of text-based editing: The ability to edit SVGs in a text editor draws parallels to earlier graphic arts practices, such as editing PostScript files. This historical perspective underscores the enduring utility of direct code manipulation for graphic assets.

Key considerations

• Pre-existing vector format: The most significant factor for preparing a logo without Illustrator is starting with an existing vector file (like a standard SVG). Converting raster images to vectors typically still requires dedicated software.
• Understanding SVG Tiny P/S: A deep understanding of the strict BIMI SVG Tiny P/S requirements, including disallowed elements (e.g., external references, scripts, or non-solid colors), is critical for successful implementation.
• Validation is non-negotiable: After any manual edits or conversions, thorough validation of the SVG file against BIMI standards is essential. This step confirms that the logo will display correctly across supporting email clients and adheres to the VMC requirements.
• Seeking expert advice for edge cases: For logos with unique design challenges, or when encountering persistent validation failures, consulting with an email deliverability expert or a graphic designer familiar with BIMI requirements can save considerable time and effort. This is often more efficient than repeated trial and error, ensuring smooth logo display in various inboxes.

Key findings

• SVG tiny 1.2 p/s format: BIMI requires logos to be in SVG Tiny 1.2 Portable/Secure (P/S) format, which is a specific and restricted subset of SVG. This means not just any SVG file will work, highlighting the need for specialized conversion or editing.
• Vectorization is a prerequisite: Documentation from Networking4all confirms that the first step is transforming pixel-based logos into vector format. This foundational step is critical before any BIMI-specific SVG refinement can occur.
• Specific prohibitions: BIMI SVG specifications prohibit elements such as external references, scripts, animation, and embedded raster images. These restrictions are in place to ensure security and consistent rendering across various email clients.
• Square aspect ratio and centering: The BIMI Group’s guidelines specify that the SVG image should have a square aspect ratio and be centered for optimal display within email clients.

Key considerations

• Understanding the p/s profile: It is crucial to understand that SVG Tiny P/S is not a standard SVG. Tools like Adobe Illustrator may export a generic SVG that still needs manual cleanup or specific conversion through a BIMI-designated tool to remove unsupported features.
• Validation tools are essential: Documentation consistently points to the necessity of validating the SVG file against the BIMI specification. This step ensures that all technical requirements are met before attempting to obtain a VMC or publish a BIMI record.
• Simplifying complex designs: Logos with intricate details, gradients, or non-solid colors may need simplification to comply with the SVG Tiny P/S format, as some features may not be supported or may render inconsistently.
• DMARC authentication dependency: The SSL Store’s documentation and others confirm that BIMI requires email messages to be authenticated by DMARC. This means proper logo preparation is only one part of the overall BIMI implementation process; strong DMARC authentication is a prerequisite.