This page will provide instructions for using the Boise State University College of Business and Economics brand. Please read the instructions. The University takes its brand identity very seriously. For questions or assistance, please consult the Boise State University Graphic Identity Reference Guide [PDF] or contact Allison Wilde, Manager, Public Relations/Communication, 208-426-1361, AllisonWilde@boisestate.edu.
Basic Pointers from the Graphic Identity Reference Guide
Boise State University has adopted a graphic identity program that includes a symbol, typographic style, and logos. Together, these create a mark for the university that is intended to provide instant recognition while conveying a sense of Boise State’s character and style. The standards set forth in this reference guide have been established to assure the integrity and consistency of the identifying marks and symbols of the university. Think of it like MLA or APA format: it’s an accepted, known standard for everyone to follow. Everyone who creates a visual presence for Boise State, from websites to brochures, is requested to read the Graphic Identity Reference Guide. As a quick reference, here are some standards and pointers from the guide with page references:
- Do not print your own letterhead, business cards, or envelopes. They must be ordered from Printing and Graphic Services. (pgs. 11-14)
- Do use color if you can. Do not print the logo in colors other than the appropriate blues or black and white. (pg. 8 )
- Do not use the Bronco horse head logo on anything that is not directly tied to the Department of Athletics. The academic departments should use the two blues in the main Boise State logo. (pg. 10)
- Do use the preferred typefaces whenever possible. Futura (sans-serif) and Garamond (serif) are the two preferred faces. Futura Condensed is the typeface used for College names under the Boise State logo. (pg. 6) Garamond should be used for letters and body copy whenever possible. It is available on most machines. Futura is not. The reference guide recommends Arial, and Arial Narrow, as a substitute.
- When printing on letterhead, the preferred margins for letter copy are: Left: 1¾″, Right: ¾″, Top: 1¾″, Bottom: ¾″.
- From page 11: The style in which information is presented on stationery and business cards should be consistent across the university. Following are some basic style guidelines:
- Phone and fax numbers are printed with dashes separating each part of the number (208-426-0000). Do not use parentheses around the area code. Do not use dots instead of dashes.
- The word “phone” is printed in front of the office phone number, the word “fax” in front of the fax number. Descriptive words can also be used in front of additional numbers, such as “pager” or “mobile”
- It is not necessary to put the words “Web” or “E-Mail” in front of these addresses because they are self-explanatory. Adding these words takes up unnecessary space and creates a cluttered look to the stationery or business card.
- Academic and medical degree abbreviations should follow names. No titles (Dr., Professor, Ms.) should precede names. To maintain a consistent appearance and to make maximum use of space, include only the highest degree awarded (for example, a person with a BA, MA, and PhD would have only PhD listed). Degree abbreviations will not use periods – PhD, not Ph.D. Only official job titles should be listed. If listing more than one job title, shortened forms may be used.
Author’s Note: when in doubt, copy the format from your business card.
Download Logos and PowerPoint Templates
All COBE logos and PowerPoint templates are available via the Logo Download page.