#  Brand and Identity 

 



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## Brand and Identity Standards and Guidelines

Brand and identity standards and guidelines apply to:

- [Consistent Identity](/node/1331#consistent-identity)

### Consistent Identity

Consistent identity helps users explore digital resources across Harvard schools and departments with confidence they are interacting with a University entity. These consistent identity standards and guidelines aim to:

- Provide a stable and consistent graphic identity so that users know they are within Harvard University’s digital landscape.
- Provide clear and consistent representation of Harvard University’s trademark so that content ownership is apparent.

The consistent identity standards and guidelines are:

- **Color Values:** Elements should use designated hex codes when using colors from the Harvard color palette, except where color values must be adjusted to conform to color contrast standards.
- **Text Colors:** Elements must not use Harvard crimson as a text color.
- **Compliant Signatures:** Sites that use Harvard signatures and signature extensions must use signatures that comply with applicable University and School guidelines.
- **Primary Wordmark:** Global header must contain the wordmark of the University or School, with the exception of flagship sites that contain the University or School signature in the site header.
- **Harvard Signature:** Global footer must contain the Harvard University horizontal signature.
- **Veritas Shield:** Veritas shield must not be altered or have appendages added to it, and must only render in Harvard crimson (#A51C30), black (#1E1E1E), and white.
- **Veritas Shield Background:** Veritas shield must not be placed on a crimson background or any other close color value.



 

####  Sources 

Consistent Identity standards and guidelines support the following requirements from the [Policy on the Use of Harvard Names and Insignias](https://trademark.harvard.edu/policy-on-use-of-harvard-names-and-insignias), [Graphic Identity Standards Manual (PDF)](https://www.harvard.edu/guidelines/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/2025_11_24_Harvard_Graphic_Identity_Guidelines-1.pdf), and [Communications guidelines and best practices](https://www.harvard.edu/guidelines/):

- [Typography](https://www.harvard.edu/guidelines/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/11/2021_09_15_harvard_graphic_identity_guidelines_1.pdf): Don’t use Harvard crimson for text color.
- [Color Palette](https://www.harvard.edu/guidelines/brand-identity/color-palette/): In reproducing Harvard University colors for print and/or on-screen viewing, we recommend using these mixes as a starting point.
- [University Signature](https://www.harvard.edu/guidelines/brand-identity/signatures-and-fonts/): The Harvard University signature should be present on all official departmental Harvard communications. The signature includes the Harvard University wordmark and the Veritas shield.
- [Signature Extensions](https://www.harvard.edu/guidelines/brand-identity/signatures-and-fonts/): If the primary designation of a website is your office, department, or group your unique signature extension should be used.
- [Veritas Shield: Artwork](https://www.harvard.edu/guidelines/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/11/2021_09_15_harvard_graphic_identity_guidelines_1.pdf): The Veritas shield should be used in combination with Harvard/Harvard University wordmarks and related signatures. It is a central element of the University’s graphic identity.
    - The Veritas shield may not be altered or have appendages added to it.
    - The Veritas shield should be represented in its original color combination of Harvard crimson, black, and white. These values should not be altered.
    - Avoid placing the shield on a crimson background or any other close value.
- [Harvard Names and Insignias](https://trademark.harvard.edu/use-of-harvard-names-and-insignias-in-electronic-contexts): The approved name of a Harvard School, unit, or activity must be used as the primary representation in all electronic contexts.



 

 



 

 See also:- [ Guidelines ](/page-categories/guidelines)