Publication Policies and Guidelines for Graphic Standards

Policy Information
Policy TitlePublication Policies and Guidelines for Graphic Standards
Responsible OfficeDivision of Communications and Marketing
Policy TypeInstitutional Services
Policy Number502
Last Revision Date8/24/2020

General Publications Policies

As a public institution, Binghamton University communicates regularly with those we serve. The size and number of activities of the University and the numerous audiences we must reach require the involvement of various University offices in public communication. The coordination of University communications and publications is centralized under the Division of Communications and Marketing. This includes, but is not limited to, publications activities undertaken to promote student enrollment and participation in University-sponsored programs and events.

The objectives of such coordination are to ensure that the University disseminates factually correct information; to avoid duplicated effort and expense; and to increase the effectiveness of publications in developing understanding and support for the University and related activities.

Publications (brochures, posters, pamphlets or other promotional information) that promote University courses, programs, services or events should be reviewed with the Office of Creative Services, or designee, for advice and assistance as may be required, particularly on matters of graphics and accuracy.

Guidelines for Written Communications

It is the policy of Binghamton University to standardize and control the use of its identifying marks in all written communications.

University letterhead, stationery and other forms of written communication containing University identification shall be used only by University personnel and only for official University business.

The official letterhead and logotype is authorized for use in connection with official University business except as provided below.

Organized research centers of Binghamton University, academic journals, publishers of books and monographs and other such entities associated with the University may use a stationery design that features the research center's or organization's name. Such stationery must also include the University's name and logo.

Separately incorporated entities associated with Binghamton University (for example, the Binghamton Foundation, University Alumni Association and Research Foundation) may use a stationery design that identifies their organization; such stationery must include the University's name.

Exceptions to this policy will be made only with the approval of the Vice President for University Communications and Marketing and the Office of Creative Services.

Implementation

The standards and guidelines described for use of the University's identifying marks and name in printed communications shall apply to all University personnel. Existing documents, reports and stationery that do not conform to these standards and guidelines shall be changed as soon as possible.

University Name

With the exception of the most formal and official documents and applications, the University should be referred to as "Binghamton University," or "Binghamton University, State University of New York." The name of the University should appear at least once in all University publications and documents.

In more formal and official communications (legal documents, contracts, diplomas, agreements with other institutions, etc.) the legal and official University name, the State University of New York at Binghamton, should be used.

When referring to Binghamton University more than once in a publication, you may use "the University" on second or subsequent reference. Never refer to Binghamton University as "BU," "SUNY-Binghamton," "SUNY-B," "Harpur College" or other names not listed above.

Use of the Logotype

The primary purpose of the logotype is to give Binghamton University greater recognition and distinction with a clean, contemporary look. The logotype was devised for compatibility with a broad range of University publications and type styles.

The official University logo is authorized for use in connection with University business. In cases where it is appropriate or desirable to use a symbol to represent the University, the logo should be used.

The logotype should be used on all University publications and printed materials. This includes, but is not limited to, materials that present information on academic programs, research, institutional development, student recruitment and public service.

The Binghamton University logotype is used as a unit incorporating the words "State University of New York" as illustrated. The logotype shall be reproduced only from authorized reproductions and shall not be redrawn, re-proportioned or modified in any way. Reproduction proofs of the logotype are available via download from the University's brand toolkit at https://www.binghamton.edu/communications-and-marketing/branding/branding-toolkit.html or from the Division of Communications and Marketing.

When used as the identifying symbol on official publications or printed matter, the logotype shall be printed horizontally. The logotype in official applications shall not be angled or placed perpendicular to other printed matter.

Letterhead and Envelopes

The most common application of the logotype is on letterhead and envelopes. To ensure continuation of the University's policy of standardized letterhead, the following guidelines apply.

The position of the Binghamton University logotype and address information must always appear in the locations shown on the letterhead and envelope examples. Standard letterhead is printed in PMS 342 (hunter green).

Letterhead is printed by an Office of Creative Services approved vendor and can be ordered online at https://www.binghamton.edu/communications-and-marketing/request-project/ordering-stationery.html. It may be customized to include the department or office name, address, phone and fax number and office email address.

Specific office information (department name, address, phone, etc.) must be printed in black ink on the letterhead in the size and typeface shown in the sample. The Binghamton University logo and any other additional information is printed in PMS 342.

No University letterhead may contain the names of individuals, with the exception of letterhead for distinguished professors. Distinguished professors may have their names printed on their letterhead in PMS 342 ink.

If a program name appears on a letterhead, it is recommended that the name of a major larger unit (college, school, division, etc.) appear on the letterhead as well, with the name of the program listed as a subset of the larger group.

No other symbols or items should appear on the letterhead.

Envelopes with an imprinted department or office name may be ordered through the Office of Creative Services. All envelopes must conform to University standards and include the Binghamton University logotype and address line. 

Letterhead and envelopes will be printed only for recognized units of the University.

Uses of the University Seal

The official seal of the University shall be reproduced only from authorized reproductions and shall not be redrawn, re-proportioned or modified in any way. The University seal shall be used only on certificates, diplomas and similar legal or official documents.

The type and design of the seal do not render an effective identifying symbol in different sizes and reproductions. When an identifying symbol is desired, the University office should use the Binghamton University logotype.

Approval to use the seal for official University business may be granted by the Division of Communications and Marketing.