If you weren't impressed with Austin's new logo, which was part of a costly $1.1 million rebranding campaign, you're definitely not alone in thinking you could create something better. The city's official rebrand has sparked widespread criticism and debate among residents who question whether the significant investment produced a design worthy of representing their vibrant city.

Thousands of professional designers have stepped up to offer their own creative solutions through an unofficial design competition hosted by Freelancer.com, a popular online platform that connects businesses with freelance designers and other creative professionals. The competition attracted entries from designers worldwide, all eager to showcase their vision for what Austin's logo should look like.

Freelancer.com has now revealed the results of their alternative logo contest, highlighting their panel of judges' top choice along with six additional finalist designs that stood out from the crowd. To give residents a complete comparison, the selection also includes Austin's previous official logo and the controversial new design that the city recently adopted as part of its expensive rebranding effort.

While this interactive quiz is purely for entertainment purposes and won't change the city's official branding decision, it offers Austin residents and visitors a chance to voice their preferences and see what alternative designs might have looked like. The city has already committed to its new logo despite the mixed public reception, but the exercise provides an interesting glimpse into what could have been.

The organizers are also encouraging broader community engagement by inviting residents to share their thoughts on what qualities and values an Austin logo should represent. They want to hear from the public about what elements truly capture the essence of the city and its unique character. Selected responses from this community feedback will be featured in an upcoming package in the Austin American-Statesman's Opinion section, giving residents a platform to express their views on the rebranding controversy.

Interested residents can participate in the logo voting process, which is currently open and accessible online. Additionally, those who want to contribute their thoughts about Austin's identity and what the logo should convey about the city can submit their letters to the editor through the newspaper's official submission process.