Logo Design Process

The steps:

"Design Brief: Conduct a questionnaire or interview with the client to get the design brief.
Research: Conduct research focused on the industry itself, on its history, and on its competitors.
Reference: Conduct research into logo designs that have been successful and current styles and trends that may be related to the design brief.
Sketching & Conceptualizing: Develop the logo design concept(s) around the brief and research.
Reflection: Take breaks throughout the design process. This lets your ideas mature and helps you get renewed enthusiasm. Receive feedback.
Positioning: Position yourself as a contractor or build a long lasting relationship. ie. Client tells you what to do OR you guide the client to the best solution. The latter is usually best however personally, I try to find a happy medium.
Presentation: Choose to present only a select few logos to the client or a whole collection. Presenting only the best is recommended.
Celebration: Drink beer, eat chocolate, sleep, start on next logo design. Or a combination."

From Just Creative Design (www.justcreativedesign.com)