Thomson,
I appreciate your comments. As a marketing person and design with 28 years in the trenches, I too lament the devaluing of strong branding and logo programs. It was interesting how strongly customers reacted to the Gap logo change. Which tells me that, yes, they do notice &amp; care. As all things are cyclical, I fully expect to see a return to customized, creative and effective logo design when companies wake up one morning and realize that every brand looks the same! Seriously though, I am fortunate to still be working with many great small and medium sized businesses who still very much realize the value of a great logo and consistent branding effort. Long live great design!   :)  Thanks again for your comments. 
all the best-
Marlin