Brand and Identity

Brand and Identity Standards and Guidelines

Brand and identity standards and guidelines apply to:

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, Graphic Identity Standards Manual (PDF), and Communications guidelines and best practices:

  • Typography: Don’t use Harvard crimson for text color.
  • 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: 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: If the primary designation of a website is your office, department, or group your unique signature extension should be used.
  • Veritas Shield: Artwork: 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: The approved name of a Harvard School, unit, or activity must be used as the primary representation in all electronic contexts.
See also: