Design

Logos and Marks

The appropriate use of ETSU's logo and marks is outlined in the Brand Guidelines below. 

Logo Request Form

Typography

Typography is a key design element that contributes to the overall look and feel of our visual identity. The following are our standard fonts.  

• Headlines: Bebas Neue Bold
• Subheadings: Merriweather Bold
• Body copy: Roboto Light
• Script 1: Oraqle
• Script 2: Great Vibes
• Logo: Rotis*

Download ETSU's standard fonts.  *Rotis is not available for download due to licensing rules. 

Acceptable alternatives

In some cases, the typefaces listed above may not be available. Arial and Roboto Slab are acceptable substitutes. 

Color

Color is one of the most impactful attributes in visual communication. ETSU's primary colors are navy blue and gold. 

Layout

When it comes to design, layout is crucial because it can make or break the effectiveness of your message. The layout determines how elements are organized on a page, which affects readability, visual hierarchy, and overall coherence. "Good layout design is both dynamic and clear, creating visual points of interest that guide the reader through a piece of content without overshadowing its message". – MasterClass

• Use a grid system: A grid system helps to organize content in a logical and consistent way. It provides a framework for positioning elements on a page, which helps to create a more visually appealing and harmonious design.
• 
  Keep it simple: A cluttered layout can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. Stick to a clean and simple design that focuses on the most important content and uses white space to create a sense of balance and harmony.
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  Create a visual hierarchy: Use size, color, and placement to create a visual hierarchy that guides the user's eye through the content. This helps to communicate the most important information first and ensures that the user doesn't get lost or overwhelmed.
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  Pay attention to typography: Typography is a critical part of layout design. Please use ETSU fonts as they are easy to read and complement the overall design. Use hierarchy to create contrast between different elements and make sure that there is enough space between lines and paragraphs to improve legibility.
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  Balance elements: Balance is key to creating a harmonious layout. Make sure that elements are balanced both visually and spatially. Use symmetry or asymmetry to create a sense of balance and harmony.
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  Consider mobile devices: With more and more people accessing content on mobile devices, it's important to design with mobile in mind. Keep layouts simple, avoid small fonts, and make sure that the content is easily scrollable and responsive to different screen sizes.

By following these best practices, you can create effective layouts that enhance the user experience and communicate your message clearly and effectively. For more information and resources on layout, please refer to the ETSU Brand Guidelines:

• Section 5.1, Design Principles
• Section 6.1, Publications

Textures

Textures are an important element in design. These design elements are the creative tools and visual assets that bring ETSU’s brand to life. Repeated use of these elements creates consistency across all our varied forms of communication. ETSU has dedicated branded textures that can be found in the Brand Guidelines above.

• Use textures purposefully: Only use textures that serve a specific purpose in the design, such as adding depth, creating a specific mood or feeling, or drawing attention to a particular element.
• Choose appropriate textures: Choose textures that are appropriate for the design and message you are trying to convey. The ETSU branded textures section has many different variations and options.
• Consider the impact on readability: Be careful when using textures on top of text, as it can make the text difficult to read. Make sure that any textures used do not obscure important information.
• Experiment with different textures: Try out different textures to find the ones that work best for your design. The ETSU branded textures section has many different variations and options.
• Use textures in moderation: Avoid using too many textures in a single design, as it can become overwhelming and distract from the message you are trying to convey.
• Consider accessibility: Make sure that any textures used do not make the design inaccessible to people with visual impairments. Ensure that there is enough contrast between the texture and any text or important elements.
  
  

By following these best practices, you can enhance the user experience and communicate your message clearly and effectively. For more information and resources on texture, please refer to the ETSU Brand Guidelines:

• Section 5.3, Design Elements

Templates

Marq Templates

ETSU uses a software platform called Marq to offer a variety of branded templates you can use to create flyers, social media graphics, and more. You must have a license to access Marq, and a limited number of licenses are available. To request a license or find out who in your unit has access, contact us at umc@etsu.edu. 

Presentation Templates

Download the ETSU PowerPoint Template. 

Additional Templates

Additional templates will be made available soon.