Factom is a blockchain protocol designed to record and secure data by leveraging the security of the Bitcoin blockchain, with its native token known as Factoids (FCT) [1]. The protocol was developed by Factom, Inc., an Austin, Texas-based startup founded in 2014 [2][3].
Design and History
The Factom logo is registered as a trademark of Factom, Inc. with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The registration, issued in 2017, describes the mark as a “tilted globe consisting of 12 lines, separated by open space, wrapping around circumference, with each line broken at different spacing from other lines, with 3 consecutive partial arrows encircling perimeter of globe” [4]. The trademark covers computer software using a consensus engine incorporating blockchain technology for securing data with cryptographic information [4].
The mark’s globe-and-arrows motif reflects the protocol’s global utility and data security focus. A 2016 design contest brief for Factom requested a redesign of an existing image to be “more attractive and memorable,” with submissions required to include the phrase “Secured by Factom” or “Secured With Factom,” and noted that the image must look good when shrunk to a very small size [5]. The contest brief also listed “Blockchain Security,” “Data security,” and “Global utility” as inspirational words [5].
Meaning and Symbolism
The official trademark description establishes the core visual elements: a tilted globe formed by 12 broken lines and three partial arrows encircling the globe’s perimeter [4]. The globe imagery aligns with the protocol’s positioning as a global data integrity layer, while the arrows suggest movement or circulation around the globe. No official documentation of additional symbolic meaning for the individual elements has been located.
Typography and Design
The trademark registration covers the image mark only, and the design contest brief indicates the brand sought a compact, legible mark suitable for small sizes [5].
Logo Index is an independent educational archive covering logos, visual identities and graphic design history. All trademarks and brand assets remain the property of their respective owners.
