Table of Contents
- Why is it important to follow CSUCI branding standards guidelines?
- How many logos represent CSUCI?
- When can I use the Formal logo?
- When can I use the Spirit logo?
- When can I use the Bell Tower logo?
- Should I always default to using the Formal Logo with the gradient?
- I want to put a logo on a patterned background. Can I do this?
- What color are the CSUCI logos?
- I'm in a hurry. Why can't I just recreate the logo?
- How has the University Seal changed?
- May I still use the old logos (pre-2009)?
- Where can I obtain electronic versions of the Logos?
- Is there an electronic version of the letterhead? We don't really need the printed stationery.
- What are the Extensions?
- I tried to resize the logo but now it looks too skinny. How do I fix this?
- I opened a .JPG and copied and pasted it into my document, but it is very fuzzy on-screen and on my print out. How do I fix this?
- Can I use photographs in my materials? If so, do I need permission from the people in the photos?
- I don't see building signage covered in this Guide. How do I request new signage?
- I don't see guidelines for creating web pages. How do I get started
Why is it important to follow University branding standards guidelines?
The guidelines, applied correctly and consistently, enable CSUCI to project a strong, coherent identity and help to prevent confusion among our audiences. Proper use of CSUCI's official logos (Formal, Spirit, University Seal and Bell Tower) is an important part of the branding process, enhancing CSUCI's image as a high–quality educational institution.
How many logos represent CSUCI?
There are three logos: the Formal logo, Spirit logo and Bell Tower logo.
When can I use the Formal logo?
You can use the Formal logo in all University materials. John Ridgway of Novocom developed the Formal logo and its variations. In addition, he also created a system of Extensions, which will assist in unifying all campus academic entities - programs, divisions, institutes, and auxiliaries.
When can I use the Spirit logo?
You can use the CSUCI Spirit logos in many documents including those that communicate to the student population. It is not, however, to be used in place of the Formal logo when communicating in official University documents. Alumna Taylor Marta's design for the CSUCI Spirit logo was chosen from a pool of more than 150 entries from current students and alums. The CSUCI Spirit logo incorporates the Dolphin mascot playfully intertwined with bold CI letters. There are two versions of this logo.
When can I use the Bell Tower logo?
Taylor Marta also created the CSUCI Bell Tower logo. This is an optional design for apparel and promotional items only and would not replace the Formal logo in official University documents.
Should I always default to using the Formal Logo with the gradient?
Yes. Always consider the method of output to determine the best possible reproduction of the Logo. For example, translation of the gradient in embroidery may not be possible. Consult with the vendor, identify any additional costs that may be incurred, and contact Communication & Public Relations to review any proofs.
Perhaps your budget will not allow full-color printing which would be the choice to reproduce the gradient variation. The option would be to use the flat variation without the gradient. These variations were created to allow more flexibility in the way we use the logo. See samples of color variations.
I want to put a logo on a patterned background. Can I do this?
A patterned background tends to make the logo difficult to view. You can place it over images with uncluttered areas such as sky or grass or on colored backgrounds. See samples of incorrect and correct use.
What color are the CSUCI logos?
The logos utilize the official colors of the University, Pantone Matching System (PMS) 186 Red and PMS Cool Gray 11 (an option to the PMS 877 Silver color). They can also be reproduced in black or reversed out of black or other dark colors. Variations of the logos can be found on the Public Drive (Z) > Logos folder. More about the University colors.
I'm in a hurry. Why can't I just recreate the logo?
Recreating the logo will not reproduce the logo accurately. The logo is created from elements and text designed specifically for CSUCI and they have specific spatial relationships and alignment. Selecting a similar font and colors will invariably produce differences that will detract from the design. The logos are very easy to access and can be found on the Public Drive (Z) > Logos folder.
How has the University Seal changed?
The University Seal has changed in name (formerly the President's Seal) and slightly in design, making some elements bolder. To request and receive approval to use the University Seal, please contact Communication & Public Relations at 805-437-8415.
May I still use the old logos (pre-2009)?
No. The new branding system replaces the old CSU Channel Islands 'bar' logo, rolling logo and Dolphin logo. Those graphics are obsolete and may no longer be used, except in an historical context.
Where can I obtain electronic versions of the Logos?
The Logos are available in different variations, colors and file types. All can be obtained by going to the Public Drive > Logos folder. Please bookmark this guideline document in your web browser to use as a reference. Please consider printing double-sided copies if needed.
Is there an electronic version of the letterhead? We don't really need the printed stationery.
An electronic version of the letterhead has been released to all Division executive administrative assistants.
What are the Extensions?
Extensions are an integral phase of the Dimensional Branding concept, uniformly identifying campus entities and allowing for their own expression of the visual brand and part of the umbrella concept.
I tried to resize the logo but now it looks too skinny. How do I fix this?
Delete the logo and import a new file into your document. Click on the corner handles of the logo and, while holding down the Shift key, proportionally enlarge or reduce the file as needed.
I opened a .JPG and copied and pasted it into my document, but it is very fuzzy on-screen and on my print out. How do I fix this?
Most programs require artwork to be "placed" or "inserted" into the document. Save the art file to your computer and access the file when prompted to locate it while "inserting" or "placing" it.
Can I use photographs in my materials? If so, do I need permission from the people in the photos?
Yes to both questions. Image release forms are generally required when people in the photo(s) are easily recognizable and anyone under the age of 18 needs to have the parent's permission to use the image. Audio/Image Release forms in English or Spanish can be accessed through Forms & Resources.
I don't see building signage covered in this Guide. How do I request new signage?
All campus signage - pedestrian and building - is managed by Facilities Services. See more information regarding placing a Facilities Services Work Order.
I don't see guidelines for creating web pages. How do I get started
View the guidelines Information Technology Services has compiled or you can start planning by contacting the Web Services Team Web Services team at webmaster@csuci.edu.