Over the last few days the new Gap logo has been the hot topic of discussion in the business and design communities. Designed to reflect the new direction that brand is heading, both in fashion and in business, the logo that is supposed to convey modernism has drawn comparisons to 1990’s Microsoft PowerPoint clip art.

In business, bad decisions can be either catastrophic or drive so much buzz that it manages to bring in more business and turn the company around—hey, at least they’re talking about you, right? However, the design and construction industries can learn a few things from Gap’s snafu.

1. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it
In this economy, companies in all industries are looking toward rebranding to boost business to pre-economic collapse levels. Similar to many construction companies, Gap has seen business slowly dwindle over the years, both due to the economy and increased competition.

Companies, even those who have been around for decades, may be tempted to spice up their brand in order to entice business and boost revenues. A construction company that has now branched into green building may redesign its logo to reflect this change. To that I say, no, just no. Add a tagline if you will, but don’t start from scratch, especially if the company is well-established.

Though governments all over the world are pumping money into building and infrastructure projects, the industry isn’t as lucrative as it used to be. Face it, no one except the bankers who received huge bonuses have money right now. Ride out the storm by streamlining the business, finding ways to improve efficiency, etc.—all tactics that will help your company succeed over the long-term. Don’t screw the pooch over a risky design change.

2. Admit your mistake and ask for public input
As soon as buzz turned negative on the new logo, Gap’s PR went into overdrive. In addition to seeking public input through social media avenues like Facebook, the President of Gap North America, Marka Hansen, posted a response on The Huffington Post to explain the change adding, “I'm excited about continuing the conversation and believe passionately in where we're taking our brand." See that? Turn the negative into a positive and see it as an opportunity to reach out to consumers directly.

3. For designers, you’re the expert. Remember that.
Now, I wasn’t a fly on the wall during the design process, so I don’t want to imply that Gap’s been a naughty client. However, the situation reminds me of previous experiences working for a branding firm and a web design firm. Clients will come to you with, what they think, are the best. ideas. EVER. Whether you’re an architect, interior designer, HVAC professional, I’m sure you’ve had a client that was hellbent on wanting something that either conflicts with the design, is 180 degrees from what was originally discussed or is just so utterly heinous that you wonder if they’ve been hitting the Jim Beam a little too hard. Despite the fact that you’ve explained to them the reasons they can’t have X, they’re still keen and will halt construction if you don’t incorporate it. We’ve all learned that the customer’s always right….except when the customer doesn’t have the professional experience to make decisions for themselves. You’re the professional—exercise that muscle!

We’ll see over the next few months if Gap’s gamble will pay off. However, don’t put yourself in their position. Think before you rebrand.