To ensure our brand remains strong and consistent, we've provided a variety of design resources and trainings below.
These tools will help you create high-quality materials that accurately reflect ETSU's
visual identity.
ETSU's Visual Identity
Hear from our Brand Manager, Cody Ryans, on how to tell the ETSU story visually. You'll learn why branding is so important, how to incorporate ETSU's design elements into your designs, and some key do's and don'ts for our brand.
Design Best Practices
As you visually tell the story of ETSU, be sure to follow these best practices.
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
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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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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.
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.
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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
Brand Guidelines
Good design helps to tell the ETSU story visually and strengthen our brand reputation.
As you continue learning more about design, be sure to familiarize yourself with the ETSU Brand Guidelines.
Become a Brand Ambassador
We invite you to become a brand ambassador and help us comunicate how ETSU makes an
impact in our region and beyond.
