The Oregon State University brand has a number of graphic tools that make us instantly identifiable. When they’re used consistently, these elements create continuity among families of materials.
Icons
Our icons should act as simple visual symbols — drawing attention to important messages and elements without dominating the design.
Note:
- Icons are meant to help supplement content and are not meant to represent colleges, departments or programs.
- Icons should not be combined with college, department or program names to form a logo.
Style
There are a few stylistic approaches to icons that make them distinctive, including: gaps in the line work, rounded ends and rounded corners.
Line weight
Our icon system is monoweight, meaning that all the elements of the icon are constructed with lines of a uniform weight.
Color
Our icons can appear in any color in our palette, but all elements must be a single color within the icon. It is important to maintain sufficient contrast when selecting colors.
Scale
When scaling icons, the stroke weight should be scaled proportionally with the size of the icon. Icons should always remain at the same scale in relation to each other.
New icon requests may be submitted to University Marketing for consideration. An icon design template is provided for those wishing to create their own.
Graphic Patterns
As a very flexible and customizable graphic element for the Oregon State University brand, graphic patterns can be used in a variety of interesting ways to create dynamic and engaging layouts.
Basic
Basic, grid-based patterns can be used universally across any type of imagery.
Contextual
Custom contextual graphics can be complex both in content and meaning. They should relate directly to the subject matter, providing an additional layer of meaning. It's important that these graphics be used subtly as a compliment to the image, or message, with its stroke weight never dominating the overall content of the composition. Contact University Marketing for guidance.
Infographics
Infographics are graphic visual representations of information, data or knowledge intended to present content quickly and clearly. Our infographics style aligns with the graphic approach for our icons — this ensures that when these elements are used together, they appear visually cohesive and consistent.
