Boise State University is an active partner in our surrounding community and region. As such, it is common for partnerships and other joint endeavors (with both internal and external entities) to be involved in marketing and advertising. As such, there is a need to define how to best represent the University in each of these partnerships.
Internal Co-Branding
When more than one Boise State entity (department, college, center, institute, etc.) is involved in a partnership or sponsorship, multiple companion marks are not permitted to be used. Instead, the primary signature mark may be used, along with a listing of the involved groups.
- Clear space guidelines must be observed around the signature mark
- Listed organizations must be in Gotham Bold font
- A brand lock (line between logo and department names) should be the height of the department’s names or University signature mark, whatever is tallest. The width of the brand lock should be equal to the “i” in the signature mark.
- Space between the logo, brand lock and organization names should adhere to the University brand standards for clear space
- The order of listing should be alphabetical, unless an order based on level of involvement can be mutually agreed upon by all participating parties
External Co-Branding
Boise State is often involved in co-branding situations with external companies, schools and organizations. In all instances, it is imperative that the integrity of our mark be preserved, both in color and in clear space. Any Boise State entities looking to co-brand with a third party must adhere to the following approval process and guidelines.
Approval Process
Before engaging in any promotional activity or co-branding opportunity that incorporates the Boise State University name, trademark or other mark, units must contact the University Brand Committee for approval at brand@boisestate.edu.
Items Needed for Approval
- Proposed uses of co-branding with an explanation as to why logo use should be included
- Proposed logos
- Contract or some form of business agreement
- Approval from the dean or vice president of the division
Depending on the nature of the request, the brand committee will consult with the following entities on campus before offering approval.
- Research and Economic Development
- Trademark Licensing and Enforcement, University Communications and Marketing
- University Advancement
- University Sponsorship
- Office of the President
Third-Party Organizations
Third-party organizations are not permitted to use any Boise State University names, logos, slogans, mascots, indicia, colors, and other proprietary rights without express permission from the Office of Trademark Licensing and Enforcement. Please contact licensing@boisestate.edu with any questions.
Guidelines for External Co-Branding
Once permission for co-branding on a Boise State University-owned medium (website, print items, etc.) has been granted, the following guidelines should be followed.
Clear space guidelines must be observed around the university signature mark
The Boise State mark should always appear on the left
A brand lock (line between university logo and third-party logo) is an optional design element to showcase a single partnerships, but is not intended for use on university websites.
- If used, a brand lock should be the height of the tallest logo being used.
- The width of the brand lock should be equal to the “i” in the signature mark.
- Space between the logo, brand lock and third party logo should adhere to the University brand standards for clear space
Web Specific Guidelines
- Display any approved third-party logos in a partnership section or panel, or in direct connection with the program, event or initiative of the partner’s involvement
- Third-party logos should not be included near the header of the website.
- Any logos or other image files used on University websites need to be in a format that is accessible to assisted-technology users.
While logo dimensions typically vary, multiple third-party logos being used should be relatively the same size as each other and not larger than the university mark
University brand guidelines for logo usage should be observed
Other Considerations
Accessible Images
Any logos or other image files used on University websites need to be in a format that is accessible to assisted-technology users. To make your image accessible, right-click and select Alt Text, add a name for the image to the Title field, then select OK.
Award Logos or Badges
Boise State University is often recognized by various news outlets and publications that oftentimes will create a design showcasing the award. Requests to utilize these designs in any University website or other publications should be sent to the University Brand Committee for approval at brand@boisestate.edu.
Events
For university events, the university logo should not appear mixed in with logos of event sponsors or in a brand lock as shown above, but rather be treated separately. If the logo must appear beside other sponsor logos, it must appear first and be at least twice the size of the other sponsors.
