Business
Forget Silicon Valley. It’s Time For Silicon Jawn.
Published
4 years agoon
Have you ever had a robot stare at you? It’s an eerie feeling. Like you’re about to be taken out by a Terminator.
“It’s not going to kill me, is it?”
“It has no weapons.”
“That’s not what I asked.”
The ExynAero hovered in front of me, blades whirring like a tiny flying lawnmower, for only a moment. It quickly moved on to scan another part of its immediate environment.
“That was awesome.”
It’s Not A Drone. It’s A Robot.
Last week, I had the privilege of touring Exyn Technologies. I spoke with team member Justin Lehmann, who showed me everything Exyn has to offer.
The ExynAero may look and sound like a drone in every understanding of the word, but it’s not a drone. It’s a robot.
“Drone connotates that the robot isn’t thinking, and is a “slave” to whoever is controlling it.
“Our argument is, we’re giving our robots missions and they’re tackling it themselves. If we keep informing the general public of this distinction we’re confident it will stick.”
Exyn Technologies, headquartered right here in Philly, has developed the world’s first Level 4A Autonomous Robot. That means that it does not require a pilot in order to fly. This robot can figure its own way around without human aid.
You just tell the robot what area you want it to search and then it goes and does it. The robot essentially says,
“Hold my beer, I got this.”
How f**king cool is that?
Before seeing these puppies in action, I apparently had a limited understanding of “autonomy” in the robotic sense. There are levels from 1 – 5. Here’s a cute little chart you can read:
This kind of autonomy means that humans can do more with less. Mining, construction, natural disasters – all of those industries or life-saving situations are suddenly not so daunting or dangerous.
This Puppy Is Keeping Miners Safe
Currently, miners use what’s called a Cavity Monitoring System (CMS). It’s basically a stick that miners hold into a recently blown or unexplored cavern. The CMS reads the environment and tells the operators what is in the space.
You can think of it as “radar on a stick.”
Okay, so, technically it’s “LiDAR on a stick,” but you get what I mean.
The issue with a CMS is that it is extremely limiting. You can only learn so much from technology.
The ExynAero, however, can actively explore its environment all on its own. No need to stand there like a dope holding a stick.
“There are dangerous jobs where employees have to capture accurate, critical data to inform business decisions.
“They saw this autonomy as a universal way to let robots take over this dangerous work while creating more jobs in the process.”
This isn’t 1920 anymore. Kids fresh out of college don’t want to crawl into dangerous spaces and risk their lives for minimum wage.
Operating a drone from a safe spot is a way sexier career choice. And you don’t necessarily have to have a whole lot of training in order to qualify as an operator.
“In the off chance the robot needs to be manually taken over and piloted home, they’d likely need some software and/or engineering background to troubleshoot problems in the field.
“But that’s if issues arise.”
“If the robot is performing normally, they’d likely need a few hours of training and testing.
“It could be something as simple as a civil service test if we’re deployed in enough places that training becomes commonplace.”
The Robot is so simple to operate that even a dog can pilot it. Take a look:
From GRASP Labs To The ‘Intel of Autonomy’
Exyn was founded by Nader Elm and Dr. Vijay Kumar in 2014 out of UPenn’s GRASP Labs. By 2017, the company was awarded Startup of the Year by Penn’s Center for Innovation and was launching its first pilot project.
By 2019, Exyn raised $16 million in Series A round, filed its first round of patents with USPTO, and began deliveries.
“We’re becoming well known for our industry-leading autonomy and customer service. We’re moving into the construction industry and have a growing ecosystem of government customers (like the Army Corp of Engineers and others).
“In the past year, we’ve doubled our number of employees from ~35 to almost 80 today.”
Exyn is primarily a software company. ExynAI is the product. As the company continues to grow, they hope to become purely a software/customer service company.
As of now, they are dominating the mining industry and are expanding into construction. All in the pursuit of keeping humans safe with reliable, efficient software. This world-class, first-of-its-kind technology is launching the human-robot collaboration to incredibly sexy heights.
Exyn Technologies has developed world-changing technology right here in Philly. Between the Navy Yard and Center City, Philadelphia is blowing up to be the tech hub of the country.
“There’s a rich ecosystem of talent coming from the University of Penn’s GRASP labs as well as a host of other universities nearby.
“We viewed Philadelphia as a world-class city to attract talent from almost anywhere.
“There’s amazing food, a thriving art scene, endless nightlife, competitive schools, and a rich history that can entice young professionals and working parents alike.
“There’s an ecosystem of robotics and software companies in Philly, so there’s no shortage of partners and collaborators to work with.
“So, forget Silicon Valley, it’s time for Silicon Jawn.”
We’re excited to see where Exyn Technologies goes from here.
Chris Blondell is a Philadelphia-based writer and social media strategist with a current focus on tech industry news. He has written about startups and entrepreneurs based in Denver, Seattle, Chicago, New Haven, and more. He has also written content for a true-crime blog, Sword and Scale, and developed social media content for a local spice shop. An occasional comedian, Chris Blondell also spends his time writing humorous content and performing stand-up for local audiences.

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Business
Know These Logo Statistics and Facts to Grow Your Business
Published
6 hours agoon
January 22, 2026
A logo is more than just a visual sign for your business. It’s the symbol of your brand’s vision and identity, and carries the weight of your credibility. In 2026, when brands are competing ever so fiercely for the audience’s attention, it has become a crucial part of earning the customers’ trust and loyalty.
Here are a few facts and statistics related to logos to help you make data-driven decisions when it comes to the visual asset that represents your brand, especially now, in a digital-first world.
Brand Recognition

Did you know that 94% of the population can recognize the iconic Coca-Cola logo? Apart from being a huge and long-standing brand, they were able to use the classic red color and the Spencerian script to their advantage. Even if they tweak their logos over the years, they maintain their signature design elements, making it easier for people to identify the brand.
What does this mean for your logo?
There’s nothing wrong with redesigning your logo, most especially if you want to make it relevant and timely. But as much as possible, keep your prominent design elements. Otherwise, the market might be confused.
Cost of Logos

Most people undervalue the work needed to create a compelling logo. Sure, you can get affordable ones online. But the question is, will it represent your brand’s vision and mission?
This is precisely the reason why you need to hire a professional graphic designer. They don’t just create logos based on visual appeal. There is science behind every stroke and color.
Data tells us that the average logo price sits around $800, with high-end lgoo designs costing up to $1,500. That’s not entirely bad news. However, this shows the need for more business owners to understand that logo is an investment.
But let’s make it clear. Paying a huge fee isn’t a guarantee that you will have a good business logo. It still depends on the skills of your designer and how clearly you provided the instructions. Take note that some of the biggest brands like Google and Nike started with cheap and even free logos. So you cannot base the effectiveness of your logo on its cost.
Graphic Designers for Logos
Since there are more than 500,000 freelance graphic designers online, the prices of logos can be extremely low. This is due to the high competition. Yet again, among the 500,000 designers, only a few can deliver superior output.
To be honest, looking for the perfect one can be tedious and time-consuming. We would encourage you to work with on-demand graphic design services as they have already selected the best graphic designers for your logo. Take a look at Penji’s business model, where you only pay a fixed fee every month for unlimited graphic design requests. This includes your logo.
Colors in Your Logo

At first, you might get too excited to design your logo. You would probably ask your designers to go all out and crazy in terms of colors. But remember that the most effective logos only contain one or two colors.
In fact, 81.6% of the largest enterprises in the world use one or two colors in its logo. Looking at the data, they clearly have something in common. And as a startup and medium-sized business, it wouldn’t hurt if you follow their lead.
In addition, the choice of color is important too. Let’s use Starbucks as an example. They use green to symbolize mother earth and universal love. Lo and beyond, it has become a universal drink. This is where color psychology takes place.
Now, you might want to use gradient, but the fact is, only 34 companies in the Fortune 500 use the style. It might be too risky to follow that path.
Symmetrical vs Asymmetrical Designs
According to studies, people perceive asymmetrical logos as an exciting brand. You can see that transition when Burger King changed their logo. If you are about to build one, you might want to stay away from the plain font view and tilt your text, if possible.
Using Hidden Messages on Logos

Many logos have hidden messages. This includes Baskin-Robbins, FedEx, and Tostitos. There are two major reasons for doing it. One, this sends a subliminal message to your audience. Another is that it pays tribute to your company’s legacy. Either way, people love solving hidden messages.
Animated Logo Designs are on the Rise

Since many people have their own gadgets, animating a brand’s logo seems to be the trend. Just take, for example, Google and Netflix. But this takes a different level of expertise. Too much animation can also be a distraction, so you have to use this technique with caution.
Just a quick trivia. This isn’t a new style. Remember MGM Studios’ classic lion? Yet again, it is only recently that companies have taken the approach.
When to Rebrand Your Logo

We’ve already mentioned the possibility of rebranding. But take note that you shouldn’t change your logo just because you feel like it. There should be a strong reason why you would alter the design elements. You need to make sure that corresponding marketing will take place to reintroduce your logo to the market. Here are a few reasons why you might need to rebrand your logo.
- There’s a change in leadership
- Business expansion or mergers
- Outdated logo design
- Recovery from a controversy
You have to be careful when you are about to redesign your logo. According to logo statistics, those who are highly committed to your brand will take the change negatively compared to those who are not highly engaged. This means you have to watch out for your loyal pool of customers when you plan to change your logo.
Cost of a Poor Logo Design on Your Business
In case you are still not convinced about the role of logos in your business, this data might change your perspective.
Data says 60% of consumers don’t support ventures with poorly-designed logos.
Isn’t that counterproductive and impractical?
Conclusion
Learning these logo statistics could help you brainstorm a design that will work best for your company. We also want to enlighten you on how important it is to choose the right graphic designer. If you are to start your logo design project, go back to knowing more about logo statistics and use it as a reference.
Featured Image Credit: Photo by George Milton from Pexels
Business
What’s the Best Design Agency in Florida
Published
18 hours agoon
January 22, 2026By
Kelli Hugh
Penji takes over your Florida business’s design workload for one flat monthly rate, removing hourly billing and surprise charges. You get a dedicated team that learns your preferences, so you are not re‑explaining your brand every time you need something designed.
Penji ranks as the best design agency in Florida for business owners who need ongoing design support. For four hundred ninety nine to nine hundred ninety nine dollars a month, you can submit unlimited design requests with consistent quality and no long‑term contracts.
Many Florida business owners discover the same problem: hiring a design agency feels great until the invoice arrives. A simple logo refresh suddenly becomes a four thousand dollar project, and you are still waiting weeks for final files.
The best design agency in Florida should feel like having an in‑house designer without the sixty thousand dollar salary, benefits, or office space. After comparing how different services operate, three options stand out.
1. Penji – Best for Unpredictable Design Needs
Penji leads this list because most Florida businesses cannot predict their design workload. One month you only need a few social posts. The next month you are launching a product and suddenly need packaging, email graphics, sales sheets, and website banners.
Traditional agencies require quotes, approvals, and budget planning for every project. Penji removes all of that. You pay a flat monthly subscription starting at four hundred ninety nine dollars, submit whatever you need, and your assigned designer works through your queue.
This model works especially well for seasonal industries. Tourism companies, real estate teams, and retail shops can increase their design output during busy months without renegotiating rates. Since you are already paying for the subscription, you can use it as much as you need. Many Florida businesses rely on Penji for this flexibility.
2. Boutique Florida Agencies – Best for Major Rebrands
If you are planning a full company rebrand, boutique agencies offer deep strategy, research, and high‑touch creative direction. Expect to invest ten thousand to twenty five thousand dollars for a complete rebrand, plus monthly retainers of five thousand to fifteen thousand dollars. This option is ideal for established companies with larger budgets.
3. 99designs – Best for Exploring Different Styles
99designs runs design contests where multiple designers submit concepts based on your brief. Prices range from two hundred ninety nine to one thousand two hundred ninety nine dollars. It is useful when you want to explore different visual directions, but it is not built for ongoing design needs.
Conclusion
When choosing a graphic design agency in Florida, consider how your business actually operates. Most owners do not plan design needs months in advance. You realize you need a trade show banner two weeks before the event, or your social media manager needs graphics by mid‑week.
This is where Penji’s model as the best design agency in Florida becomes practical. You have design support ready whenever you need it, whether you submit two requests this month or twenty. Review their full graphic design agency services to see the range they cover.
Stop paying per project and start using a more predictable design system. Start your free Penji trial today and clear your Florida business’s design backlog. Cancel anytime if it is not the right fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s included in Florida design agency pricing
Traditional agencies charge separately for concepts, revisions, and file formats. Unlimited services like Penji include everything. The initial designs, unlimited revisions, and all file types for one monthly rate.
How do I know if my business needs ongoing design support
If you request designs more than twice a month, a subscription service like Penji usually costs less than project‑based agencies. Track your design spending for a few months to compare.
What’s the difference between Florida design agencies and national services
National services like Penji often cost less because they are not limited by local talent pools or Florida office overhead. You still get experienced designers, just without the geographic markup.
Business
What’s the Best Design Agency in Texas for Growing Businesses?
Published
23 hours agoon
January 21, 2026
Known for its legendary cowboy culture, iconic attractions, and deep historical roots, the Lone Star State is also home to thriving businesses. This is thanks to the plethora of graphic design agencies that help boost their visual identity. All you need to do now is choose one that fits your brand well. Here are the best design agencies in Texas you can choose from:
1. Penji

Offering the best unlimited graphic design services, Penji is a design-as-a-service platform that lets you get all your visual asset needs for one flat monthly rate. Its remote-first model allows it to take clients from around the globe, providing them with the highest quality graphic design services.
2. Tenderling

Specializing in hotels, apartments, real estate, restaurants, and wellness, Tenderling is an excellent option for businesses seeking the best design agency in Texas. This award-winning design agency is female-owned and HUB certified by the State of Texas. It offers brand strategy, development, execution, maintenance, and many other services.
3. The Matchbox Studio

Having collaborated with some of the biggest names in the land, The Matchbox Studio takes pride in its work with FedEx, American Airlines, and Fossil. It has a team of strategists, artists, designers, and developers that helps businesses in the entertainment industry achieve attention-grabbing branding and digital design.
4. Left Hand Design

Offering a wide range of graphic design services,Left Hand Design shines in providing design and branding services to its Texas clients. It offers logo design, social media branding, web design, event branding, email template design, and printing services, among others. It also offers ecommerce, print ads, website development, and many other similar services.
5. The Label Collective

Another award-winner on this list of the best design agencies in Texas is The Label Collective. In addition, it is a women-owned business that offers a wide range of graphic design and related services. This includes brand strategy, visual identity, creative services, and brand management.

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