Visual Identity System

Print

Indiana University has undergone a communications makeover. Its printed materials and Web sites were once chaotically diverse, with different logos, colors, and fonts for each department and program. Without a clear visual link to IU, public audiences were often uncertain about which units were connected to the university. At the request of the Trustees of Indiana University, the Division of Public Affairs and Government Relations at IU Bloomington now guides the Integrated Image Program, which seeks to create a consistent visual identity for all of IU, including IU South Bend.

The program’s visual identity guidelines pertain to all official communications including publications, stationery, billboards, giveaways, Web sites, and videos. They explain how to use the block IU and university seal, and how to apply typography and colors for a consistent look that strengthens the image of the university.

Colors

The official IU cream and crimson are key components of the Integrated Image Program. Consistent use and careful matching are essential in establishing and maintaining a unified image.

The Pantone® colors should be used on all printed material, including stationery. When a Pantone color is not available, the CMYK mix may be used. In instances where IU cream is impractical or not available, white may be used.

Primary Colors

IU Crimson
Print	Pantone* 201 C0 M100 Y63 K29
Web	Hex #7D110C

 

IU Cream
Print	Pantone* 9161 C7 M9 Y20 K0
Web	Hex #F8F3D2

Secondary Colors

IU Dark Gray
Print	C0 M0 Y0 K70
Web	Hex #6D6E70

 

IU Light Gray
Print	C0 M0 Y0 K25
Web	Hex #B0B2B4

 

IU Midnight Blue
Print	Pantone* 5405 C71 M30 Y13 K41
Web	Hex #2D637F

Typography

The following font families are preferred fonts for use on official stationary and signage:

Trade Gothic (all typefaces)
Georgia
Officina Sans and Officina Serif
Franklin Gothic
They should be used to complement and contrast with signatures incorporating the IU font family and can be used for either text or display purposes where appropriate. They should never be used in an official signature.

Notes about specific fonts:

Trade Gothic, Officina Sans, and Officina Serif are not system fonts, so your unit must purchase a license for their use. These fonts are best used for print purposes.

Georgia is a system font already installed on most computers and is appropriate for all media.

Franklin Gothic is a system font already installed on most computers and is best used for print purposes.

Seal

Use of the IU seal is reserved for specific ceremonial purposes and communications from the Chancellor’s Office. The seal is not to be used by individual schools, departments, units, or student groups.

 

Nominclature

As part of the integrated image initiative, the campus is now referred to as Indiana University South Bend or IU South Bend. Any reference to the campus as IUSB is discouraged.

 

Signature Mark

Whenever the signature mark is used, the following rules apply:
The complete signature must be used.
The signature must not be altered or distorted in any way.
The signature should not be combined with another emblem or symbol.
Type should not touch the signature or signature elements, or be superimposed over them.
The signature must be placed so no other text or visual element is in close proximity (see spacing guidelines).

Spacing Guidelines

Non-signature elements such as type or images (excluding a background treatment) may not encroach on or behind the clear area.
The width of the “U” (the value of X) must surround the mark equally on all sides.

Note: The Block IU can be used alone when a unit signature isn’t considered necessary.

Any questions about visual identity should be addressed to Melissa Wise, Manager of Publications and Graphic Design, at 574-520-5556.

Policies/Procedures: Licencing and Trade Marks link to their office: uses of the mark: