Whilst i would agree that contests for design work probably arent the best method of getting a good deal they do offer several benefits.

On our part, we get to see the creativity of other community members which can sometimes be better than our original plans for the logos as well as being much more cost effective than spending $75 on a logo from a designer that we will potentially never use.

On a designers part, they get to show their work off to other potential clients.

Win-Win situation all round, even if a designer doesnt win, other get to see the quality of their work and they may pick up additional paying clients because of something they posted.

Regards,

Lee