G R A P H I C S T A N D A R D S & Style Guide
A r e f e r en c e f o r a c ohe s i v e b r and image
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
ST
AB
LE
OF
CO
NT
EN
TS
01
RE
FE
RE
NC
E F
OR
CO
NT
EN
TS
OF
GR
AP
HIC
ST
AN
DA
RD
S
GRAPHIC STANDARDS 02-34
BRAND IMAGE 02
WHY “Higher Education That Actually Gets You Hired” 03
DISTRICT LOGO USE 04-06
COLLEGE LOGO USE 07-09
PRIMARY COLOR USE 10
PRINT COLOR PALETTE 11
COLLEGE LOGO COLORS 12
TYPOGRAPHY 13
PHOTOGRAPHY 14-15
POWER POINT 16
PRINT ADS 17-18
ONLINE ADVERTISING BANNERS 19
PRINT COLLATERAL 20-24
DISTRICT STATIONERY 25-28
COLLEGE STATIONERY 29-31
COLLEGE BILLBOARDS 32
DISTRICT STYLE GUIDE 33-52
INTRODUCTION 33
REQUIREMENTS 34
USE OF DISTRICT LOGO AND WORDMARK 35
PHOTO RELEASE FORMS 35
PUBLICATION NUMBERS 36
COPYRIGHT 36
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENTS 37-39
QUALITY ASSURANCE AND CONSISTENCY 40
SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES 41-42
DISTRICT STYLE DICTIONARY 43-45
DISTRICT WEB STANDARDS 46
WEBSITE DESIGN 49
WEB SECURITY 49
WEB LOGO USE 50
WEB COLOR PALETTE 51
RECOMMENDED WEB-RELATED READING 52
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SC
ON
SIS
TE
NT
BR
AN
DIN
G
02
IMP
OR
TA
NC
E O
F B
RA
ND
IMA
GE
BRAND IMAGE
The graphic standards in this manual are designed to strengthen the overall DCCCD brand
consistently, while enabling each college to reflect its own personality. Developing a common
visual identity is an essential step in reinforcing our image in the community. Our graphic
standards are created to unify what we say about ourselves and how we say it.
These guidelines apply to external communications. They are designed to be consistent, easily
understandable and comprehensive. By using them as a reference for your communications
materials, you and your fellow employees will play a critical role in reinforcing the district’s
brand and people’s perceptions of DCCCD. Our goals are to:
• Distinguish ourselves from an ever-growing number of competitors
• Enable our colleges to leverage advertising dollars spent on the district campaign
• Increase our market share and enrollment
• Enhance our credibility with potential donors and grant agencies
• Be well-positioned in the minds of our constituents for future growth opportunities
We believe that knowledgeable employees who support our branding efforts are an important
factor in our success. Please share this information with everyone who is involved in your
communications efforts, including staff members, photographers, freelance designers, printers
and other vendors. With your help, we can strengthen and clarify the district brand as you
simultaneously promote your specific institution.
If you have questions, please contact Justin Lonon, executive vice chancellor and chief of staff,
at 214-378-1748.
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SC
ON
SIS
TE
NT
BR
AN
DIN
G
03
BR
AN
D P
OS
ITIO
NIN
GWHY “Higher Education That Actual ly Gets You Hired.”
Building a brand means establishing a positive image. As we build DCCCD’s brand and image,
the communications effort will continue to stress the benefits of higher education; the courage
and dedication of the members of our learning community – from students, faculty and staff
to donors and friends; and our service to those students. We can show our courage and dedication
through a unified communications effort — from stories to advertising to special programs
and events – that focuses on the individuals who make up our college communities. Those
efforts, in turn, strengthen both our image and our brand, showing that we deliver on the
promises we make.
The district provides an excellent learning environment, an opportunity for personal and
professional growth, and economic stimulus. We also help people change careers through
workforce development or challenge their minds through lifelong learning opportunities.
For students, facing the challenges of a college education takes courage, energy, discipline,
determination and, yes, toughness, ambition and dedication. Attending classes, working and
balancing responsibilities to their families are only a few of the challenges that students
contend with as they prepare for exams, complete reading assignments and proofread a term
paper for the third time. Through it all, they overcome obstacles, set and achieve goals, expect
to grow and even serve as examples for others to follow.
By delivering classes, advisement, guidance and many types of assistance to students, the district’s
faculty and staff exhibit those same traits. Many serve as mentors, going above and beyond
the call to assist students as well as colleagues – creating an environment that encourages
growth, promotes education and builds community.
Each person has a unique story. By sharing those stories through a unified communications
program, with our image and brand always in mind, DCCCD will prove, again and again,
that we deliver “Higher Education That Actually Gets You Hired.”
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR LOGO USEThe DCCCD logos are a very important part of the DCCCD identity. This section of the graphic
standards explains the rules and guidelines for logo placement on collateral materials only. The
logo should be used on collateral only in the ways outlined in the graphic standards. The logo,
consisting of the square and star, may not be used alone or without the school name. For
convenience, use the logo EPS file provided instead of trying to re-create the logo. This ensures
that the logo and wordmark remain in the same proportion when the logo is resized.
HORIZONTAL LOGOThe horizontal logo consists of the logo with the wordmark to the right. The horizontal logo is
used on stationery, the cover of print collateral and ads.
VERTICAL LOGOThe vertical logo consists of the logo with the wordmark underneath. The vertical logo is used
on outdoor boards and in spaces that do not accommodate the horizontal logo.
CLEAR SPACEIt is recommended that the horizontal logo be used in most cases. In all cases, use the logo that
fits best in the space allotted with the required clear space around it. For maximum impact,
always leave a generous amount of space around the DCCCD logo. The minimum clear space
around the logo is .25 inch.
DIS
TR
ICT
LO
GO
US
E
04
US
ING
TH
E D
IST
RIC
T L
OG
O E
FF
EC
TIV
ELY
.25”
.25”
.25”.25”
.25”
.25”
.25”.25”
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
MINIMUM SIZE OF LOGODo not reproduce the DCCCD horizontal logo smaller than 1.25 inches in width.
Do not reproduce the DCCCD vertical logo smaller than 1 inch in width.
Do not reproduce the DCCCD parent logo smaller than 3 inches in width.
STRETCHING OR SKEWINGIt is important to always maintain the original proportions of the DCCCD logo, and therefore to
never stretch or skew the logo horizontally or vertically.
Incorrect — logo is stretched horizontally
Incorrect — logo is stretched vertically
3”
1”
1.25”
DIS
TR
ICT
LO
GO
US
E
05
US
ING
TH
E D
IST
RIC
T L
OG
O E
FF
EC
TIV
ELY
3”
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
LOGO COLORWhen the DCCCD logo is used in color, it should be used only in DCCCD Red (PMS 185), DCCCD
Blue (PMS 286) and black. It should be used on a white background for maximum effect. Use
on a black background is acceptable as shown below.
CORRECT
INCORRECT
COLOR BACKGROUNDSThe DCCCD logo can be reversed out of color backgrounds. According to the standards for print
ads, television and print collateral in this guide, the logo should be reversed out of black. In
some cases the logo can be reversed out of other colors, but it should be reversed only out of
dark colors that allow the logo to be legible.
CORRECT
GOOD
INCORRECT
DIS
TR
ICT
LO
GO
US
E
06
US
ING
TH
E D
IST
RIC
T L
OG
O E
FF
EC
TIV
ELY
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR INDIVIDUAL COLLEGE LOGO USEConsistent use of the individual college logos is just as important as consistent use of the
district logo in building the DCCCD identity. The logo, consisting of the square and icon, may
not be used alone or without the school name. For convenience, use the logo EPS file
provided instead of trying to recreate the logo. This ensures that the logo and wordmark remain
in the same proportion when the logo is resized.
HORIZONTAL LOGOThe horizontal logo consists of the logo with the wordmark to the right.
VERTICAL LOGOThe vertical logo consists of the logo with the wordmark underneath.
CLEAR SPACEIt is recommended that the horizontal logo be used in most cases. In all cases, use the logo that
fits best in the space allotted with the required clear space around it. For maximum impact,
always leave a generous amount of space around the individual college logo. The minimum clear
space around the logo is .25 inch.
IND
IVID
UA
L C
OL
LE
GE
LO
GO
US
E
07
US
ING
TH
E IN
DIV
IDU
AL
CO
LL
EG
E L
OG
O E
FF
EC
TIV
ELY
.25”
.25”
.25”.25”
.25”
.25”
.25”.25”
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
MINIMUM SIZE OF LOGODo not reproduce the individual college horizontal logo smaller than 2.25 inches in width.
Do not reproduce the individual college vertical logo smaller than 2 inches in width.
STRETCHING OR SKEWINGIt is important to always maintain the original proportions of the individual college logo and
therefore to never stretch or skew the logo horizontally or vertically.
Incorrect — logo is stretched horizontally
Incorrect — logo is stretched vertically
2”
2.25”
IND
IVID
UA
L C
OL
LE
GE
LO
GO
US
E
08
US
ING
TH
E IN
DIV
IDU
AL
CO
LL
EG
E L
OG
O E
FF
EC
TIV
ELY
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
LOGO COLORThe individual college logo should be used in the college’s specific colors only on a white
background for maximum effect. Use on a black background is acceptable as shown below.
CORRECT
INCORRECT
COLOR BACKGROUNDSThe individual college logo can be reversed out of color backgrounds. According to the
standards for print ads, television and print collateral in this guide, the logo should be reversed
out of black. In some cases the logo can be reversed out of other colors, but it should be
reversed only out of dark colors that allow the logo to be legible.
CORRECT
GOOD
INCORRECT
IND
IVID
UA
L C
OL
LE
GE
LO
GO
US
E
09
US
ING
TH
E IN
DIV
IDU
AL
CO
LL
EG
E L
OG
O E
FF
EC
TIV
ELY
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
PRINT COLOR PALETTEThe DCCCD print color palette comprises primary and secondary colors. The primary colors are
used in the logo. The secondary colors are not specified but should compliment the college or
district logo being used. The secondary colors should not be used in the logo but can be used on
the website and print collateral.
PRIMARY COLORSThe primary colors are the main identifying colors for the DCCCD. It is important that these
colors are used appropriately on all DCCCD materials as specified in these graphic standards.
DCCCD Black
PMS Black U (uncoated paper)
PMS Black C (coated paper)
C 000, M 000, Y 000, K 100
R 000, G 000, B 000
DCCCD Red
PMS 185 U (uncoated paper)
PMS 185 C (coated paper)
C 0, M 90, Y 86, K 0
R 228, G 0, B 43
DCCCD Blue
PMS 286 U (uncoated paper)
PMS 286 C (coated paper)
C 100, M 75, Y 0, K 0
R 0, G 51, B 160
CO
LO
R U
SE
10
PR
IMA
RY
CO
LO
RS
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
R GB
1512150
CMYK
460900
#97D700
PMS 375 U PMS 375 C
R GB
015057
CMYK
9101000
#009639
PMS 355 U PMS 355 C
R GB
2552050
CMYK
0141000
#FFCD00
PMS 116 U PMS 116 C
R GB
2371390
CMYK
0511000
#ED8B00
PMS 144 U PMS 144 C
BROOKHAVEN CEDAR VALLEY
R GB
2341180
CMYK
061990
#EA7600
PMS 716 U PMS 716 C
R GB
048135
CMYK
10075218
#003087
PMS 287 U PMS 287 C
EASTFIELD
R GB
0153255
CMYK
100000
#0099FF
Process Cyan
R GB
000
CMYK
0000
#000000
Black UBlack C
EL CENTRO
R GB
2552050
CMYK
0141000
#FFCD00
PMS 116 U PMS 116 C
R GB
051160
CMYK
1007500
#0033A0
PMS 286 U PMS 286 C
R GB
012251
CMYK
91410025
#007A33
PMS 356 U PMS 356 C
R GB
061165
CMYK
1006704
#003DA5
PMS 293 U PMS 293 C
R GB
013261
CMYK
92210012
#00843D
PMS 348 U PMS 348 C
R GB
15229151
CMYK
489600
#981D97
PMS 254 U PMS 254 C
R GB
228043
CMYK
093790
#E4002B
PMS 185 U PMS 185 C
R GB
051160
CMYK
1007500
#0033A0
PMS 286 U PMS 286 C
MOUNTAIN VIEW NORTH LAKE RICHLAND DISTRICT
CO
LO
R U
SE
PR
IMA
RY
CO
LO
RS
11
PRINT COLOR PALETTE
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SC
OL
OR
US
E
12
CO
LL
EG
E L
OG
O C
OL
OR
S
PMS 375 C46 M0 Y90 K0PMS 355 C91 M0 Y100 K0
PMS 116 C0 M14 Y100 K0PMS 144 C0 M51 Y100 K0
PMS 716 C0 M61 Y99 K0PMS 287 C100 M75 Y2 K18
PROCESS CYAN C100 M0 Y0 K0BLACK C0 M0 Y0 K0
PMS 116 C0 M14 Y100 K0PMS 286 C100 M75 Y0 K0
PMS 356 C91 M4 Y100 K25PMS 293 C100 M67 Y0 K4
PMS 348 C92 M2 Y100 K12PMS 254 C48 M96 Y0 K0
PMS 185 C0 M93 Y79 K0PMS 286 C100 M75 Y0 K0
The official college/location logos and wordmarks are listed below. The approved Pantone Matching Colors (PMS) as well as CMYK (4-color) formulas are provided.
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
CONSISTENT TYPOGRAPHYThe DCCCD’s primary typeface is Rotis Serif. All logos created for the district and individual
colleges use this typeface; therefore, it is recommended that this typeface be used in all other
materials (advertising, stationery, print collateral, etc.). The use of consistent typography plays
an important part in a cohesive branding system.
Body copy and subheads
Rotis Serif 55 Regular
Rotis Serif 56 Italic
Rotis Serif 65 Bold
Use sparingly in body copy only
Rotis Sans Serif 45 Light
Rotis Sans Serif 46 Light Italic
Rotis Sans Serif 55 Regular
Rotis Sans Serif 56 Italic
Rotis Sans Serif 65 Bold
Used for Headlines
Trade Gothic Bold Condensed 20
TY
PO
GR
AP
HY
13
US
ING
TH
E C
OR
RE
CT
TY
PE
FA
CE
S
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SP
HO
TO
ST
YL
E –
AD
VE
RT
ISIN
G C
AM
PA
IGN
14
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R P
HO
TO
GR
AP
HY
The style of photos used in print and online advertising are engaging scenes that present the
individual’s personality and uniqueness to the viewer. It is very important that people look
natural, at ease and approachable. Try to avoid any photos in which the person looks posed,
stiff or uncomfortable.
THINGS TO LOOK FOR Natural expressions that capture the individual’s personality
Ease in body posture
Serious faces are acceptable; make sure the person looks proud, instead of angry
THINGS TO AVOID Unnatural expressions (such as forced smiles)
Partially closed eyes
Too much shadow on the face
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SP
HO
TO
ST
YL
E –
PR
INT
CO
LL
AT
ER
AL
15
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R S
EL
EC
TIN
G P
HO
TO
GR
AP
HY
Photography on print collateral presents an opportunity to engage the viewer in the piece, so
it is important that images be selected with care. The photography can switch out according to
the target audience of the piece, such as photos of senior students for a senior citizens’
program. Although the pictures will change, guidelines can be followed to ensure the quality of
the stock imagery chosen or original photography created for print collateral.
SUBJECT MATTERThe main focal point of the photos should be a person or multiple people in an educational
setting. Avoid images that look staged. Try to find photos that look candid. Viewers should feel
as though they are seeing everyday life at the college, not as though they are looking at a
session in a portrait studio.
STOCK PHOTOGRAPHY SOURCESstock.adobe.com, istockphoto.com, gettyimages.com
NO – looks posed and unnatural; books are being used as props instead of serving a purpose
YES – candid shot of people in a natural classroom setting; woman looks as though she is casually glancing at the camera; everyone else is focused on the lesson
NO – obviously staged; everyone is looking at the camera and posing
YES – candid shot of people in aclassroom setting; very natural
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
Below are examples of both district and college PowerPoint templates. Following these
guidelines allows colleges and district locations to maintain a consistent look and feel in
their PowerPoint presentations. PowerPoint templates can be downloaded: dcccd.edu/logos.
16
PO
WE
RP
OIN
T T
EM
PL
AT
ES
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R C
RE
AT
ING
PO
WE
RP
PO
INT
PR
ES
EN
TA
TIO
NS
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SP
RIN
T A
DV
ER
TIS
ING
– L
AR
GE
FO
RM
AT
17
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R R
EC
RE
AT
ING
AD
S A
PP
RO
XIM
AT
ELY
The following is a guide for creating large-format print ads. Following it closely will help
maintain a consistent look and feel for all print advertising.
The tagline can be used as a headline, such as in this example. Therefore, the branding bar features the website in place of the tagline as a call to action.
Be sure your ad answers the question of ‘why’ rather than featuring a blanket statement such as ‘Register Now’.
The standard branding bar (shown below) can be used when the tagline is not featured as a headline.
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
Solid color bar at bottom of ad
Logo/wordmark must be large enough to read
Tagline “Higher Education That Actually Gets You Hired” optional in this area but required on document
Vertical Ad
Horizontal Ad
ADS – GENERAL RECRUITMENT AND REGISTRATION
PR
INT
AD
VE
RT
ISIN
G –
AD
S
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R G
EN
ER
AL
RE
CR
UIT
ME
NT
AN
D R
EG
IST
RA
TIO
N
18
Below are guidelines for creating general recruitment print ads. Following them closely will help maintain a consistent look and feel for all print ads.
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
19
ON
LIN
E A
DV
ERTIS
ING
– B
AN
NERS
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R O
NL
INE
BA
NN
ER
AD
VE
RT
ISIN
G
ONLINE BANNER ADS
Online banner ads must also feature the black branding bar for consistency. For horizontal online banners (shown above) the branding bar must be placed on the right-hand side of the banner ad. To maximize space for the content area, the vertical version of the logo is used within the branding bar.
It’s best to keep the ad to seven words or less.
On animated online banner ads, the branding bar needs to remain static and visible during the duration of the ad.
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SP
RIN
T C
OL
LA
TE
RA
L –
CO
VE
R
20
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R P
RIN
T C
OL
LA
TE
RA
L
Below are general guidelines for creating the cover of print collateral. This format can
be used for districtwide collateral as well as individual college collateral. Although the
measurements given are based on an 8.5” x 11” piece, these guidelines can be used for
collateral of any size by scaling the elements proportionately to fit your needs.
Use of the branding bar with the tagline (below) is an option, depending on the subject matter of the piece.
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SP
RIN
T C
OL
LA
TE
RA
L –
GE
NE
RA
L C
OL
LE
GE
BR
OC
HU
RE
S
21
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R P
RIN
T C
OL
LA
TE
RA
L
Below are guidelines for creating the cover of a program and/or general college brochures.
Although the example shown is based on a tri-fold brochure cover, these guidelines can be used
for print collateral of any size by scaling the elements proportionately to fit your needs.
In this example of a tri-fold brochure, a vertical version of the logo is stacked within the black branding bar due to limited horizontal space.
Here, the traditional horizontal branding bar is used as another option, when the website or tagline is featured within the content area of the brochure, above the branding bar.
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
Below are examples of rack cards which, in many cases, are taking the place of tri-fold brochures.
PR
INT
CO
LL
AT
ER
AL
– G
EN
ER
AL
CO
LL
EG
E B
RO
CH
UR
ES
22
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R P
RIN
T C
OL
LA
TE
RA
L
The two most common sizes the district uses are 4” x 9” pictured here, and 3.5” x 11”, pictured on the next page, depending on how much content you need to display.
These two sizes will fit standard-size rack card holders.
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SP
RIN
T C
OL
LA
TE
RA
L –
GE
NE
RA
L C
OL
LE
GE
RA
CK
CA
RD
S G
UID
EL
INE
S F
OR
PR
INT
CO
LL
AT
ER
AL
22
23
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
The following examples of college posters demonstrate how the required graphic elements can be used
effectively to maintain a consistent look and feel in a variety of printed pieces.
PR
INT
CO
LL
AT
ER
AL
– C
OL
LE
GE
EX
AM
PL
ES
24
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R P
RIN
T C
OL
LA
TE
RA
L
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
Department/Division1601 S. Lamar St. | Dallas, TX 75215 | p 123-456-7890 | f 123-456-7891 | dcccd.edu
John Doe, Title
ST
AT
ION
ER
Y -
LE
TT
ER
HE
AD
25
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R B
AS
IC L
ET
TE
RH
EA
D A
ND
BO
AR
D O
F T
RU
ST
EE
S L
ET
TE
RH
EA
D
Below are general guidelines for stationery. Since most stationery is used for correspondence
between the colleges and outside sources, it is important to maintain these standards in order
to present a cohesive brand image.
DEPARTMENT NAMEFont: Rotis Sans Serif 55Size: 10pt.Letterspacing: 15Color: Black
The logo should always be in the upper left-hand corner of the letterhead. The DCCCD Red/Blue logo should be used.
ADDRESSFont: Rotis Sans Serif 55Size: 10pt.Letterspacing: 15Color: Black
The Board of Trustees information is simply added to the basic letterhead in the upper right-hand corner. Font: Rotis Sans Serif 55Size: 8pt.Case: Upper and LowerLetterspacing: 5Leading: 14pt. for board member namesColor: Black
ADMINISTRATORName: Rotis Sans Serif 55Size: 10pt.Letterspacing: 5Color: BlackTitle: Rotis Sans Serif 56 ItalicSize: 10pt.Letterspacing: 5Color: Black
Office of Board Relations 1601 South Lamar | Dallas, TX 752 15 | t 214-378.1603 | f 2 14-378-0000 | ww w.dcccd.edu
Board of Trustees
Charletta Rogers Compton,
Chair
Diana Flores
Wesley Jameson
Monica Lira Bravo
Philip J. Ritter
JL Sonny Williams
Dorothy Zimmerman
Chancellor
Joe D. May
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
Office of the Chancellor 1601 South Lamar | Dallas, TX 75215 | t 214-378-1601 | f 214-378-1810 | www.dcccd.edu
Dr. Joe D. May, Chancellor
June 15, 2016
Mr. James Smith1401 Akard StreetDallas, Texas 75201
Dear Mr. Smith,
Thank you for your interest in the Dallas County Community College District. Thank you foryour interest in the Dallas County Community College District. Thank you for your interestin the Dallas County Community College District. Thank you for your interest in the DallasCounty Community College District. Thank you for your interest in the Dallas County Community College District.
Thank you for your interest in the Dallas County Community College District. Thank you foryour interest in the Dallas County Community College District. Thank you for your interestin the Dallas County Community College District. Thank you for your interest in the DallasCounty Community College District. Thank you for your interest in the Dallas County Community College District.
Thank you for your interest in the Dallas County Community College District. Thank you foryour interest in the Dallas County Community College District. Thank you for your interestin the Dallas County Community College District. Thank you for your interest in the DallasCounty Community College District. Thank you for your interest in the Dallas County Community College District.
Best regards,
Joe D. May
ST
AT
ION
ER
Y -
LE
TT
ER
HE
AD
26
LE
TT
ER
HE
AD
WIT
H S
AM
PL
E L
ET
TE
R
Below is the DCCCD letterhead with a sample letter in place to show how correspondence
should interact with the letterhead design.
Any correspondence on the letterhead should align with Dallas County Community College District in the logo.
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
John DoeTitleDivision/Department
[email protected] | p 123-456-7890 | f 123-456-7891
1601 S. Lamar St. | Dallas, TX 75215
ST
AT
ION
ER
Y -
BU
SIN
ES
S C
AR
D
27
BU
SIN
ES
S C
AR
DS
FR
ON
T
Below is the DCCCD business card. Take special care to follow these guidelines when creating
new business cards.
The DCCCD Red/Blue logo should be used on the business card.
NAMEFont: Rotis Semi Sans Serif RegularSize: 11.5pt.Case: Upper and LowerLetterspacing: 0Color: Black
TITLE & EMAILFont: Rotis Semi Sans Serif Italic 56Size: 8pt.Case: Upper and LowerLetterspacing: -25Color: Black
PHONEFont: Rotis Sans Serif 55Size: 9pt.Case: LowerLetterspacing: 15Leading: 11pt.Color: Black
ADDRESSFont: Rotis Sans Serif 55Size: 9pt.Case: Upper and LowerLetterspacing: 15Leading: 14pt.Color: Black
LINEStroke: .25pt.Color: Black
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SS
TA
TIO
NE
RY
- E
NV
EL
OP
E
28
EN
VE
LO
PE
FR
ON
T
Below is the DCCCD #10 business envelope. Take special care to follow these guidelines when
creating envelopes. Envelopes may be printed in color or in black and white.
The DCCCD Red/Blue logo should be used on the envelope.
ADDRESS Font: Rotis Sans Serif 55Size: 7pt.Case: Upper and LowerLetterspacing: 15Leading: 8.5pt. Color: Black
Office of the Chancellor
1601 S. Lamar St., Ste. 300 | Dallas, Texas 75215-1816
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
Office of the President3030 N. Dallas Ave. | Lancaster, TX 75134 | p 123-456-7890 | f 123-456-7891 | cedarvalleycollege.edu
Dr. Joe SeabrooksPresident
October 25, 2016
Mr. James Smith1001 Stewart Ave.Dallas, Texas 75201
Dear James,
Thank you for your interest in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program.Thank you for your interst in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program. Thank youfor you interest in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program. Thank you foryour interst in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program. Thank you for your interest in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program.
Thank you for your interest in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program.Thank you for your interst in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program. Thank youfor you interest in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program. Thank you foryour interst in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program. Thank you for your interest in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program.
Thank you for your interest in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program.Thank you for your interst in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program. Thank youfor you interest in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program. Thank you foryour interst in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program. Thank you for your interest in Cedar Valley College’s Veterinary Technology program.
Sincerely,
Joe Seabrooks
Department/Division (if ordered) 3030 N. Dallas Ave. | Lancaster, TX 75134 | p 123-456-7890 | f 123-456-7891 | cedarvalleycollege.edu
John Doe (if ordered)Title (if ordered)
IND
IVID
UA
L C
OL
LE
GE
ST
AT
ION
ER
Y -
LE
TT
ER
HE
AD
29
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R B
AS
IC L
ET
TE
RH
EA
D
Below are general guidelines for the stationery. Since most stationery is used for correspondence
between the colleges and outside sources, it is important to maintain these standards in order
to present a cohesive brand image.
DEPARTMENT NAMEFont: Rotis Sans Serif 55Size: 10pt.Letterspacing: 15Leading: 12pt.Color: Black
The college logo should always be in the upper left-hand corner of the letterhead. The college’s color logo should be used.
ADDRESSFont: Rotis Sans Serif 55Size: 10pt.Letterspacing: 15Leading: 12pt.Color: Black
NAME/TITLEFont: Rotis Sans Serif 55/Rotis Sans Serif 56 ItalicSize: 10pt.Case: Upper and LowerLetterspacing: 5Leading: 12pt. Color: Black
Any correspondence on the letterhead should align with the college name in the logo.
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SIN
DIV
IDU
AL
CO
LL
EG
E S
TA
TIO
NE
RY
- B
US
INE
SS
CA
RD
30
BU
SIN
ES
S C
AR
DS
FR
ON
T
Below is the individual college business card. Take special care to follow these guidelines when
creating new business cards.
The individual college color logo should be used on the business card.
NAMEFont: Rotis Semi Serif 55Size: 11.5pt.Case: Upper and LowerLetterspacing: 0Color: Black
TITLEFont: Rotis Semi Serif 56 ItalicSize: 8pt.Case: Upper and LowerLetterspacing: -25Color: Black
E-MAIL AND PHONEFont: Rotis Semi Serif 55Size: 9pt.Case: LowerLetterspacing: 15Leading: 11pt.Color: Black
ADDRESSFont: Rotis Semi Serif RegularSize: 9pt.Case: Upper and LowerLetterspacing: 15Leading: 14pt.Color: Black
Jane DoeTitleDivision/Department
[email protected] | p 123-456-7890 | f 123-456-7890
3030 N. Dallas Ave. | Lancaster, TX 75134
The mission of Cedar Valley College is to provide exemplary teaching and
learning experiences that prepare students for success in a dynamic
world while strengthening communities.
Colleges have the option to print additional information on the back of the business card.
Front of business card
Back of business card
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
1601 South Lamar Street | Dallas, TX 75215-1816
IND
IVID
UA
L C
OL
LE
GE
ST
AT
ION
ER
Y -
EN
VE
LO
PE
31
EN
VE
LO
PE
FR
ON
T
Below is the individual college #10 business envelope. Take special care to follow these
guidelines when creating envelopes. Envelopes may be printed in color or black and white.
The individual college color logo should be used on the envelope.
DEPARTMENT AND ADDRESS Font: Rotis Sans Serif 55Size: 7pt.Case: Upper and LowerLetterspacing: 15Leading: 8.5pt.Color: Black
Division / Department
3030 N. Dallas Ave. | Lancaster, TX 75134
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
SIN
DIV
IDU
AL
CO
LL
EG
E B
ILL
BO
AR
DS
32
GU
IDE
LIN
ES
FO
R C
RE
AT
ING
OU
TD
OO
R A
DV
ER
TIS
ING
FO
R IN
DIV
IDU
AL
CO
LL
EG
ES
Below are general guidelines for individual college billboards. Following these guidelines
allows individual colleges to create outdoor advertising that corresponds with the district’s
outdoor advertising.
Billboards are most effective with a strong message consisting of seven words or less, on a solid color background. Remember, with billboards you have only a few seconds to get your message across.
White backgrounds are not allowed on digital billboards –the excessive brightness is dangerous for drivers.
The headline should be set in Trade Gothic Bold Cond. 20.
Like horizontal online banner ads, the black branding bar must be placed on the right-hand side,featuring the vertical version of the logo to maximize the space for the content area.
.
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
DISTRICT STYLE GUIDE Approved by the Chancellor’s Cabinet on July 1, 2002.
Revised by the Marketing/Communications Council on June 25, 2004.
Approved by the Districtwide Web Action Team on Sept. 10, 2004.
Approved by the Marketing/Communications Council on Sept. 23, 2004, and Jan. 25, 2005.
Revised January, 2017.
INTRODUCTION
Dallas County Community College District’s intention is to create world-class, engaging, interactive,
easy-to-use and accessible external publications that support DCCCD branding efforts and strategic
goals.
Publications should be current, easy to read and navigate, and informative. They should be accessible
to widely diverse populations. The design and structure of DCCCD publications should reflect the
DCCCD organizational culture, which places ultimate value on student success and which applies the
principles of continuous quality improvement to achieve that success.
Publications should promote and support the entities of DCCCD.
SCOPE
All DCCCD employees who publish mass communications will follow the District Style Guide and
DCCCD Graphic Standards. This group includes the colleges, District Office and District Service Center.
The Catalog Group and the Communications Management Committee will follow the District Style
Guide except when an overriding authority prevails (WECM, SACSCOC, etc.).
The District Style Guide applies to mass communications (as identified by each college). It does not
apply to instructional materials, Starlink or eConnect.
The DCCCD Graphic Standards must be applied to all external communications, including:
Advertisements
Annual reports
Billboards
Brochures
Newspaper inserts
Online banners/fliers/emails
Online class schedules
Posters
Quick copy fliers/brochures
Social media
Websites
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
33
INT
RO
DU
CT
ION
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
REQUIREMENTS
Publications will adhere to the standards outlined in the most current version of the DCCCD Graphic
Standards and District Style Guide. The following elements are required on all DCCCD district and
college publications:
• Official logo and wordmark
• Equal opportunity statement
• SACSCOC statements (in credit class schedules/in college catalogs)
• Use of Rotis and Trade Gothic fonts (Additional appropriate fonts may be used at the
designer’s discretion.)
The following elements are recommended, but not required:
• Use of the official Dallas County Community College District color palette (see guidelines
on pages 10-12 of the Graphic Standards Manual)
• Custom photography
Use clip art sparingly, and customize if possible.
The official district or location logo/wordmark must be displayed, and it must be primary. Other logos/
wordmarks may be displayed also, but they must be secondary to the district/location logo/wordmark.
All marketing communications are required to come through the Marketing/Communications Office
for review/approval. Each location decides which publications require Marketing/Communications
Office review. Following is a list of things that may be reviewed:
Content
Content owners’ approval
Spelling
Grammar
Syntax
Compliance with USPS regulations
Compliance with copyright law
Compliance with the CAN-SPAM Act of 2003
Compliance with DCCCD’s Accessibility Policy - dcccd.edu/AP
Compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Correct use of logo
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
34
RE
QU
IRE
ME
NT
S
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
Correct use of postal indicia
Legal/legislative mandates/requirements
Equal opportunity statement
Policies of the college, district (including Style Guide), SACSCOC, THECB
Accreditation (required)
Recommended changes/additions to the guide and standards should be brought to the monthly
Marketing/Communications Council meetings for a vote on an as-needed basis.
USE OF DISTRICT LOGO AND WORDMARK
The DCCCD logo and wordmark are important components of the district’s brand (image, identity).
They must be used consistently to be effective. Attempts to “improve” or “enhance” the district logo
and wordmark are counterproductive. They weaken, rather than strengthen, our identity in the
community.
Refer to the DCCCD Graphic Standards for detailed information about how and when to use the
district and college logos and wordmarks.
The official DCCCD logo and wordmark are stored in the district website image bank. Always use the
official logo and wordmark on district pages. Various sizes are available. dcccd.edu/logos
PHOTO RELEASE FORMS
All locations are required to obtain photo release forms from people who are photographed if the
photos will be used in a promotional publication. We also recommend:
1) gathering other useful information about the person who is photographed as part of the approval
process, which will make cutline writing easier in the future; and
2) offering students the opportunity to leave the classroom before a photo shoot begins.
Photo release forms are not needed for news photography or from individuals photographed in crowds
(eight or more people).
Refer to the DCCCD Graphic Standards page on the district website for examples that have been
approved by DCCCD’s attorney. dcccd.edu/styleguide
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
35
RE
QU
IRE
ME
NT
S
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
PUBLICATION NUMBERS
To indicate that a publication has the approval of the Marketing/Communications Office, the
locations may choose to assign publication identification numbers, which may include the following:
• Location identification
• Publication year
• Job number
• Publication number
COPYRIGHT
The use of a copyright notice is no longer required under U.S. law, although it often is beneficial. Use
of the notice may be important because it informs the public that the work is protected by copyright,
identifies the copyright owner and shows the year of first publication. Furthermore, in the event that
a work is infringed upon, if a proper notice of copyright appears on the published copy or copies
to which a defendant in a copyright infringement suit had access, then no weight shall be given
to such a defendant’s interposition of a defense based on innocent infringement in mitigation of
actual or statutory damages, except as provided in section 504(c)(2) of the copyright law. Innocent
infringement occurs when the infringer did not realize that the work was protected.
The use of the copyright notice is the responsibility of the copyright owner and does not require
advance permission from, or registration with, the Copyright Office.
Form of Notice for Visually Perceptible Copies
The notice for visually perceptible copies should contain all of the following three elements:
1. The symbol © (the letter C in a circle), or the word “Copyright,” or the abbreviation “Copr.”; and
2. The year of first publication of the work. In the case of compilations or derivative works
incorporating previously published material, the year date of first publication of the compilation or
derivative work is sufficient. The year date may be omitted where a pictorial, graphic or sculptural
work, with accompanying textual matter, if any, is reproduced in or on greeting cards, postcards,
stationery, jewelry, dolls, toys or any useful article; and
3. The name of the owner of copyright in the work, or an abbreviation by which the name can be
recognized, or a generally known alternative designation of the owner.
Example: © 2002 John Doe
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
36
PU
BL
ICA
TIO
N N
UM
BE
RS
AN
D C
OP
YR
IGH
T
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
The “C in a circle” notice is used only on “visually perceptible copies.” Certain kinds of works — for
example, musical, dramatic and literary works — may be fixed not in “copies” but by means of
sound in an audio recording. Since audio recordings such as audio tapes and phonograph disks are
“phonorecords” and not “copies,” the “C in a circle” notice is not used to indicate protection of the
underlying musical, dramatic or literary work that is recorded.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENTS
In order to comply with Board of Trustees Policies FA (Local) on equal educational opportunities and
DAA (Local) on equal employment opportunities, DCCCD will publish nondiscrimination notifications
and statements. There are basically two types of notices. The first is a policy notification. It states
the district’s policy of nondiscrimination and gives the name, address and telephone number of
the Title IX and Section 504 coordinator(s) who can be contacted concerning the policy or its
implementation. This notification should be made prior to the beginning of each school year to
students, parents, employees and the general public. The notification should be published in local
newspapers, which is usually the best way to notify the general public. If your service area contains
a community of national origin minority persons with limited English-language skill, the notice also
must be provided in the community’s primary language. DCCCD publishes this type of notification
annually in the official catalogs.
The second type of notice is usually referred to as a nondiscrimination statement. This is the
wording that we will use on publications to express our commitment as an equal opportunity
employer. Remember to include it on materials or forms that are used for recruiting or hiring
employees.
Nondiscrimination Statement – DCCCD
The Dallas County Community College District prohibits all forms of discrimination and/or
harrassment against any student, employee, guest or visitor on the basis of race, color, religion,
gender, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or
any other basis prohibited by law.
Nondiscrimination Statement – College
(Name of college) prohibits all forms of discrimination and/or harrassment against any student,
employee, guest or visitor on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability,
sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or any other basis prohibited by law.
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
37
EQ
UA
L O
PP
OR
TU
NIT
Y S
TA
TE
ME
NT
S
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
Nondiscrimination Statement – DCCCD en Español
El Distrito de Colegios Comunitario del Condado de Dallas prohíbe toda forma de discriminación y/o
acoso contra cualquier estudiante, empleado, invitado o visitante a causa de raza, color, edad, origen
nacional, religión, sexo, género, identidad de género, expresión de género, capacidades diferentes,
orientación sexual, o cualquier otro fundamento prohibido por ley.
Nondiscrimination Statement – College en Español
(Nombre de colegio) prohíbe toda forma de discriminación y/o acoso contra cualquier estudiante,
empleado, invitado o visitante a causa de raza, color, edad, origen nacional, religión, sexo, género,
identidad de género, expresión de género, capacidades diferentes, orientación sexual, o cualquier
otro fundamento prohibido por ley.
EEOC Statement
The EEOC statement is a shorter version of the policy notification and is to be included on course
announcements, bulletins, catalogs, application forms, enrollment forms, brochures and recruitment
or promotional materials.
This does not mean that you must have an EEOC statement on every piece of paper or
correspondence that leaves your office. A good rule of thumb is to include it on all informational
materials that are given to all students, applicants and employees, particularly those publications
that describe offerings, benefits or services available. Use the full statement on brochures and other
publications. If you are placing an ad in the newspaper, you may use the shorter version.
EEOC Full Version - DCCCD
The Dallas County Community College District provides educational opportunities without regard to
race, color, age, national origin, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, disability or
sexual orientation.
EEOC Full Version - College
(Name of college) provides educational opportunities without regard to race, color, age, national
origin, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, disability or sexual orientation.
This statement is to be included on course announcements, bulletins, catalogs, application forms,
enrollment forms, brochures and recruitment or promotional materials.
Short Version
An Equal Opportunity Educational Institution
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
38
EQ
UA
L O
PP
OR
TU
NIT
Y S
TA
TE
ME
NT
S -
CO
NT
INU
ED
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
DCCCD Full Version en Español
El Distrito de Colegios Comunitarios del Condado de Dallas ofrece oportunidades educativas sin
consideración de raza, color, edad, origen nacional, religión, sexo, género, identidad de género,
expresión de género, capacidades diferentes o orientación sexual.
College Full Version en Español
(Nombre de colegio) ofrece oportunidades educativas sin consideración de raza, color, edad, origen
nacional, religión, sexo, género, identidad de género, expresión de género, capacidades diferentes o
orientación sexual.
Short Version en Español
Institución Educativa con Igualdad de Oportunidades
Sources: LaShawn Grant, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, Institutional Equity and Compliance Officer
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
39
EQ
UA
L O
PP
OR
TU
ITY
ST
AT
EM
EN
TS
EN
ES
PA
NO
L
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
QUALITY ASSURANCE AND CONSISTENCY
Accuracy and consistency in publications are signs of professionalism. Higher education institutions
are held to a higher quality standard than most other institutions. Published content with
grammatical or spelling errors reflects poorly on the quality of the institution and raises doubts
about the institution’s ability to provide students with a quality education. Therefore, proofreading
and editing are needed to ensure that we consistently provide excellent, error-free content. Every
publication requires an editor, in addition to the author, to perform the following tasks:
A) Review content, grammar and spelling.
B) Edit content, using these four references in this order: 1) District Style Guide 2) AP Stylebook (current edition) 3) Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary online edition (This dictionary is available online, free, through all DCCCD libraries.) 4) Location Style Guide
If the first reference listed does not clarify an issue, try the second and, if necessary, the third to
ensure a minimal level of consistency in district and college publications.
C) Ensure that publications are written for the eighth-grade level. (To identify the level, use the Microsoft Word Spelling and Language tool, which displays the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level after checking the document. However, write for the average level of the target audience.)
D) Ensure that the publication is written in the active voice. (This, too, can be checked using the Microsoft Word Spelling and Language tools.)
E) On websites, always test links before posting new content.
F) When marketing DCCCD programs and courses, always use the official catalog name to ensure compliance with SACSCOC rules.G) Never copy/paste “sole source” content into a webpage. Reason: When you copy/paste sole source content into a webpage that is not managed by the sole source content owner, updates will be missed and the content will quickly become inaccurate and out of date. Sole source content includes: catalog, financial aid and tuition.
H) All content authors must take SharePoint training before receiving access to the SharePoint website publishing system.
I) Once an individual has taken SharePoint Basics training, he or she is added to the SharePoint All Roles email group. Important updates are sent out through this email list.
J) Individuals, departments or groups that wish to publish a new section on the district website will make their request through the District Director of Digital Communications. The college marketing director (or designee) will review requests to publish new custom content on college websites.
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
40
QU
AL
ITY
AS
SU
RA
NC
E A
ND
CO
NS
IST
EN
CY
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES
BACKGROUND
Before the internet, most of DCCCD’s marketing and communications efforts were one-way: We talked
(through advertising, direct mail, news releases, billboards, etc.) and hoped our audiences listened.
With the advent of social media, audience expectations have evolved. Instead of simply sending one-way
or “push” communication, audiences now expect to interact with brands at will, engaging in two-way
conversations and discussing what’s presented, either with the brand directly or among themselves.
When done well, social media can be an extremely effective way to communicate with your audience.
But with that said, it can be a little scary when you’re no longer fully in control of the messaging, since
an exchange of audience ideas or opinions hasn’t historically been part of the process. A key to social
media is understanding and embracing the fact that you will be a part of your audience’s conversation
around your brand and learning to use that fact to your advantage by effectively engaging with your
audience.
This is something to keep in mind as you build your social media presence. Commentators can approach
at will and discuss your organization whenever and wherever they like. They may praise you or chastise
you, or even both in the same message — and they’ll do it whether you’re present for it or not.
As social media continues to evolve, the intent of this policy is to protect the district and its
stakeholders equally.
40 4041414141414ADMINISTRATION OF ACCOUNTS
Reputation management falls under the purview of each college’s marketing department. Individual
departments and groups who wish to publish on social networks are required to notify the marketing
department each time a new account is set up. Each marketing department is charged with the
following:
● • maintaining access to all pages and accounts so college ownership can be maintained ● in the event of faculty/staff turnover
● • recommending username protocols
● • keeping a current list of accounts and account managers
● • monitoring them for quality assurance and reputation
This process ensures that the marketing department is aware of all location-related accounts, which
will enable it to monitor those sites and provide support and account management if needed.
The college marketing departments are encouraged to publish location-specific social networking
operational guidelines for employees to follow in addition to these best practices, if needed.
41
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
SO
CIA
L M
ED
IA G
UID
EL
INE
S
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
No fewer than two employees should have administrator-level access to all accounts representing
DCCCD. (For information about how to do this without sharing passwords, contact your college
marketing department or contact the district social media team at [email protected].) This is
especially important for security purposes and to ensure that each college can easily maintain
continuity of ownership. For Facebook, this means adding multiple administrators to a page. For
Twitter, Instagram and others, this means sharing your username and password information with
your college marketing department.
Personal and professional social media content should be managed separately. This ensures that posts
intended for publishing on personal accounts do not accidently appear on professional accounts.
SOCIAL MEDIA PAGE CREATION AND BRAND STANDARDS
Before creating any new social media pages or accounts, all departments should consult with their
marketing department to discuss the maintenance of those pages. Often, you will find that building a
brand page from scratch will require more time and money than you can comfortably commit. In most
cases, the best strategy will be to work with your college marketing department to post that content
to your institution’s brand page.
Use of social media on behalf of the district and colleges implies your consent to the District Style
Guide and Graphic Standards. All district and college social media sites should use an approved district
or college logo as their profile photo and a high-quality, relevant image for cover art, such as a photo-
graph of your college campus or of students involved in your programs and activities.
For Facebook, the “About” section should be filled out as fully and accurately as possible, including
hours of operation, website and any other relevant information. Users may stumble across your page
for the first time while seeking this exact information. A vanity URL should be created. (For infor-
mation on how to do this, contact your college marketing department or contact the district social
media team at [email protected].) Additionally, all college pages should mention that they are
part of the Dallas County Community College District (or part of @dcccd).
The logo bars that appear on much of DCCCD’s marketing are not required for use on social media.
Since the brand name is always right next to (or above or below) the post/Tweet/image, it isn’t con-
sidered necessary. Going without the logo bar also contributes to the feeling of authenticity desired
by most social media audiences. PAID ADVERTISEMENTS AND MARKETING
Any paid social media advertisements must be developed or approved by the district or college mar-
keting department.
42
SO
CIA
L M
ED
IA G
UID
EL
INE
S
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
DISTRICT STYLE DICTIONARY
AA, AAS degree – no periods after letters in the degree designation (contrary to AP style)
advisor – not adviser (contrary to AP)
ampersands – Follow the AP Stylebook except for Content Management System (CMS) web link names.
When space is limited in CMS navigation, it is acceptable to use ampersands in the link name.
art exhibitions – Put the titles of art exhibitions in italics. The titles of individual works of art should
be put in quotation marks. Example: “Poppies in a Field” is one of 10 paintings in Jane Doe’s current
exhibition, Flower Stories.
browsable
Example: The browsable credit class schedule is available online.
campus – The word “campus” describes the grounds where a college is located. While “campus” often
is used appropriately in text, a reference to an accredited institution always should be as a “college.”
Do not refer to any of our accredited institutions as a “campus” unless you are referring to its grounds/
location.
Example: “Brookhaven College has a lovely campus.”Example: “The Cedar Valley campus includes two lakes.”Example: “DCCCD comprises seven colleges.”Example: “The college nearest to Richland’s campus is Brookhaven College.”Example: “The campus is maintained beautifully.”Example: “The Assessment Center is located on the west side of the campus.”
Note: Because we are known as Dallas County Community Colleges in marketing and promotional efforts, the word “college” or “colleges” potentially can be overused in text – two to three times in one sentence or within an adjacent sentence. Try varying the words by using “college” with the formal reference required above, plus “institution” and “campus” when necessary (third or fourth reference, to avoid violating the rule already described here). Sometimes the word “facility” also can be substituted, depending on the text and the circumstances.
center – See entry for office.
college – See entry for campus.
Core Curriculum – Core courses
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
43
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E D
ICT
ION
AR
Y
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
Example: Students interested in transferring to a four-year university are strongly advised to complete the Core Curriculum at DCCCD.Example: Jon will be taking two Core courses this semester.
Dallas County Community Colleges; Dallas Community Colleges; (College Name) A Dallas Community College – acceptable use of district name in marketing and promotional materials
DCCCD - the official abbreviation of Dallas County Community College District
department – See entry for office.
districtwide – one word
division – See entry for office.
emailemail alias addresses – To protect against fraud and identity theft, always use an alias when publishing an email address on business cards and other printed materials, in eConnect or on district or college websites. Never publish an Online Services Sign-In/Active Directory login identification number.Example: [email protected], not [email protected]
healthcare – one word (contrary to AP style)
HTML - all caps
internet
intranet
location abbreviations - acceptable on second reference
BHC - Brookhaven College
BJP – Bill J. Priest Institute
CVC - Cedar Valley College
DCO - Dallas Colleges Online
EFC - Eastfield College
ECC - El Centro College
LCET - LeCroy Center for Educational Telecommunications
MVC - Mountain View College
NLC - North Lake College
RLC - Richland College
DO - District Office
DSC - District Service Center
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
44
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E D
ICT
ION
AR
Y
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
log in (v.), login (n., adj.), log on (v.), logon (n., adj.) – Use these terms when referring to the everyday act of logging in to a site, service, etc. (as opposed to the branded DCCCD Single Sign-On service or Online Services Sign-In User ID and password.) Also see: sign in.
office – Capitalize the first letter when used as part of a proper name. Use lower case in casual uses. Example: For more information, visit the Financial Aid Office.Example: His office is close to mine.
online - one word, lower case
Online Services Sign-In (OSSI acceptable on second reference) – the user ID and password students and employees use for Single Sign-On
sign in (v.), sign-in (n., adj.), sign on (v.), sign-on (n., adj.) – Use these terms when referring to the everyday act of signing in to a site, service, etc. (as opposed to the branded DCCCD Single Sign-On service or Online Services Sign-In user ID and password). Also see: log in.
Single Sign-On (SSO acceptable on second reference) – service that allows students and employees to log on to many DCCCD online services with one user ID and password (known as their Online Services Sign-In)
state names – When including the name of a city and state in body text, use the AP abbreviation for the state (contrary to AP)
subdirectory – one word, lower case
telephone numbers – Use hyphens to separate numbers (e.g., 214-860-2135). Exception: Use parentheses around area codes on documents that go to reporters, if required.
titles – Follow the “AP Stylebook” guidelines for composition titles.
URIs (URLs) – Publish only the part of the URI (URL) that appears after the slashes, and do not include “www,” unless there is a special reason for listing the entire URI (URL) (contrary to AP) Example: dcccd.edu, not http://www.dcccd.edu
Note: • If you must list a full URI (URL) (for example, when referencing a site that uses the https protocol), use consistent URI (URL) formatting throughout the page, document, etc. • Be sure to check any web address to make sure it works before publishing. (For example, for some websites, you must include “www”). • Online, the best practice for accessibility purposes is to use anchor text vs. writing out the entire URI (URL) (Example: Google, not www.google.com)
web
web browser
webcam – one word, lower case
webcast – one word, lower case
webmail – one word, lower case
webmaster – one word, lower case
webpage - one word
web server - two words
website - one word
wordmark - one word
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
45
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E D
ICT
ION
AR
Y
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
DISTRICT WEB STYLE STANDARDS
for District Website Design, Navigation and Content Presentation
CONTACTS
When listing contact information on the website in text, the format to use is:College Name (links to college’s website file)Street Address (in AP style)City, TX 75XXXphone: XXX-XXX-XXXXfax: XXX-XXX-XXXXemail: [email protected] hours: Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (AP style)
On pages where icons are used to signify contact information, use the following icons:
DOMAIN NAMES
The official top-level domain for DCCCD websites is .edu. Content owners are encouraged to use
intuitive aliases that link to the official URI. However, only the official top-level domain name (.edu)
may be advertised. For example, DCCCD owns dcccd.edu, dcccd.info and dcccd.net. (Unfortunately,
dcccd.org is not available.) However, we only advertise dcccd.edu.
Traditionally, the .com top-level domain is used by for-profit businesses. One of DCCCD’s key
competitive strengths is the high-quality, low-cost education we offer to our students. By advertising
as a .com, we might give students the impression that we are for-profit, which is at odds with the
low-cost message we continuously promote.
DSC-IT’s Network Services is responsible for registration of district domain names. (It also provides
this service for colleges and service locations.)
LINKING
When linking to an external webpage or a PDF, set it to open in a new window (target=_blank). This
allows users to return easily to the original page and avoid getting “lost.”
On the district website, any link to a webpage that is not on dcccd.edu should open in a new window.
This includes links to the catalog, eConnect, eCampus, RNT (FAQs) and college websites. Links from
RNT to dcccd.edu or the catalog should also open in a new window.
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
46
phonewhich collegefaxemailhours
o�ce locationfacebooktwitterlinkedin
DIS
TR
ICT
WE
B S
TY
LE
ST
AN
DA
RD
S
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
LOGO USE
In printed materials as well as on webpages, any additional logos must be secondary to and smaller
than the district/college logo.
Departmental logos are not allowed. Departments may have icons that identify their area, but again,
those icons cannot supercede the college/district logo.
TRANSLATIONS
Each college website and the district website has a Spanish language section which is maintained by
DCCCD’s official Spanish translator. DCCCD does not use translation services such as Google or Bing
because the translations are not reliable and may not communicate our message clearly. This will
reflect poorly on our brand. Students have the option of using in-browser translators or other tools if
they need a translation.
URIs (aka URLs)
URIs are Uniform Resource Identifiers. They are the only naming/addressing technology available on
the web. In the past, URLs (Uniform Resource Locators) were used. This is an informal term (no longer
used in technical specifications) associated with popular URI schemes: http, ftp, mailto, etc.
Although the URIs generated by SharePoint on the district website are long and complicated,
it is possible to create easy-to-remember, intuitive shortcuts such as dcccd.edu/purchasing for
promotional purposes. Send your shortcut requests to the District Director of Digital Communications
or his/her designee.
Always spell out the college name in your home page URI when writing it out online or in print (e.g.,
richlandcollege.edu).
Always request a shortcut link when advertising a link below the level of the home page online or in
print.
Use this: dcccd.edu/Shortcuts
Not this: dcccd.edu/Emp/Tools/shortcuts/Pages/default.aspx
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
47
LO
GO
US
E T
RA
NS
LA
TO
NS
UR
Is
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
WEBSITE DESIGN
BACKGROUND
For the first time since the college and district websites were created in 1995, all DCCCD colleges
and locations share a common design and navigation. The Unified Student Experience (USE) website,
which launched in early 2017, offers students the navigational consistency and ease of use they are
seeking as they move back and forth between the district and college websites. If web visitors are
familiar with the navigation at one college, they will be familiar with the navigation at all of the
other colleges and the district website as well.
The USE website addresses student needs and desires identified in the Student Experience Study,
which was conducted in late 2015. The site also provides the colleges with the ability to add custom
content as needed to comply with SACSCOC rules.
COLLEGE AND DISTRICT WEBSITE GOALS
Increase enrollment by effectively:
• Marketing DCCCD’s credit and noncredit programs to prospective students, businesses and community members
• Capturing qualified leads for email marketing campaigns and Outreach initiatives activities to connect/reconnect with prospective students
Supoprt DCCCD’s brand messaging by providing:
• Quality content that offers rich, deep and consistent information that follows the district’s Web Content Management guidelines/processes • Consistent navigation that quickly and easily allows students to locate content regardless of which DCCCD website they visit • Network orientation that allows colleges to easily support students and each other
Provide an excellent website experience for all visitors by ensuring that all DCCCD websites, whether hosted internally or externally are:
• User friendly (conduct periodic user testing to confirm) • Mobile friendly (conduct periodic user testing to confirm) • Accessible by those who have special needs (monitor Section 508 compliance using SiteImprove Quality Assurance module)
Enhance website operations, form and functionality by using:
• Web content management roles, processes and technology, including DCCCD’s Web Hosting Operational Procedures • Robust analytics (Google and SiteImprove) • Robust search functionality • Built-in disaster recovery and automatic back-ups • Consistent, districtwide forms whenever possible • Numerous high-quality videos (provide captioning and transcripts for every video)
48
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
WE
BS
ITE
DE
SIG
N &
GO
AL
S
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
DCCCD’s ONLINE WEB TOOLS AND RESOURCES
District Style Guide and Graphic Standards (dcccd.edu/StyleAndGraphics)
What Is Web Content Management? (dcccd.edu/WCM)
Content Developer’s Checklist (dcccd.edu/CDC)
Web Hosting Operational Procedures (dcccd.edu/WHOP)
Copyright for Employees (dcccd.edu/copyrightforemployees)
SharePoint for Employees (dcccd.edu/sharepoint)
WEB SECURITY
To protect against fraud and identity theft, always use an alias when publishing an email address on
eConnect or on district location websites. (Never publish an Online Services/Active Directory login
identification number on business cards or on other printed materials.)
Example: [email protected], not [email protected]
WEB LOGOS
All district webpages must display an official district or location logo above the global navigation.
Any other logos displayed on the page must be secondary and smaller than the primary district or
location logo on the page.
Nondistrict entities that want to use our logo must use the entire official logo, which includes the
graphic and text.
For web optimization, SVG, with a GIF or PNG fallback, is the recommended file format for logos.
For instances where a district entity is using a third party tool or service, the square version only
may be used as long as the text “Dallas County Community College District” or the college name is
included in the top area of the site.
For additional questions or clarifications, contact the Manager of Rich Media or the District Director
of Marketing.
Always be sure to use the latest version of the district and location logos, which can be found on
the district website: dcccd.edu/logos
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
ON
LIN
E T
OO
LS
& R
ES
OU
RC
ES
WE
B S
EC
UR
ITY
LO
GO
US
E
49
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
WEB LOGO USE
SCREENS 768 PIXELS TO 990 PIXELS WIDE
For medium-sized screens, the square logo should appear with the district or college name next
to it. The logo should be at least 45 pixels high with 10 pixels surrounding the logo.
“DCCCD” or “A DALLAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE” should also appear in the header area if it is not
included in the logo itself.
SCREENS LARGER THAN 991 PIXELS WIDE
For larger or desktop-sized screens, the full logo should always be used. The logo should be at least 45
pixels high with 10 pixels surrounding the logo.
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
LO
GO
SIZ
ES
LOGO SIZES
The size and logo used on the web may vary depending on the screen size on which the logo is being
displayed.
The district and location logos should never be smaller than 35 pixels tall with a minimum of 10 pixels
surrounding the logo on all sides.
SCREENS BELOW 767 PIXEL WIDTH
For smaller screens, below 767 pixels wide, an HTML/text-only version of the logo may be used.
The college name must be in serif font and be at least 2em in size with a line-height of 1em.
Below the college name, the text “A DALLAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE” or “DALLAS COUNTY COMMUNITY
COLLEGE DISTRICT” must be included in all caps and at least .8em in size, with a line-height of .75em.
The logo should be surrounded with a least 10px margin or padding.
50
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
PRIMARY(nav, mobile header,
heading, links)
PRIMARY LIGHT
BROOKHAV
EN
CSS CLAS
S
CEDAR
VALLE
Y
EASTF
IELD
SECONDARY(top bar nav, footer)
#97D700
#009639
PRIMARY DARK
SECONDARY LIGHT
SECONDARY DARK
#F8FFE6
#648900
#EEFFF4
#006022
#FFFAE6
#B29000
#FFF4E6
#9E5600
#FFEEE6
#A54C25
#E6F4FF
#002C4C
SECONDARY MEDIUM #45C974 #F4AB53
#0075CCPRIMARY MEDIUM #C1EA50 #FFDF57
#F9A17A
#FFCD00
#ED8B00 #F47735
#00539B
.cprimary
.cprimary-lt
.cprimary-md
.cprimary-dk
PRIMARY GRADIENT #97D700#80AF00
#FFCD00#D8AE00
#F47735#CC5E2E
.cprimary-gr
.csecondary
.csecondary-lt
.csecondary-md
.csecondary-dk
SECONDARY GRADIENT #009639#007229
#ED8B00#C46B00
#00539B#004172
.csecondary-gr
EL CEN
TRO
MOUNTAIN VI
EW
NORTH LA
KE
RICHLAND
DISTRICT &
ONLINE
#E6F6FF
#0072B2
#E5E5E5
#000000
#E6F9FF
#045F7F
#F5FFE6
#4B6326
#FDE6FF
#4B184F
#E6FFF4
#003820
#A8A8A8
#B6D880 #42C18B
#E6EFFF
#001D51
#FAFFEB
#B29000
#FFDF57
#57C3FF
#51BEE5 #B971BF #487AD3
#0099FF
#404040
#FFCD00
#0033A0
#058FCC
#82B041
#7E2783
#008752
#0033A0
#7592D0
#92278F #E0042B
#FFCD00#D8AE00
#0099FF#008BD8
#058FCC#057CA5
#7E2783#5F1F66
#0033A0#002B77
#E6E9ED
#4A5E82
#A3B3CE
#7592DO #607AA8
#404040#262626
#82B041#688934
#008752#006037
#E6EFFF
#001D51
#487AD3
#0033A0#002B77
PRIMARY(nav, mobile header,
heading, links)
PRIMARY LIGHT
CSS CLAS
S
SECONDARY(top bar nav, footer)
PRIMARY DARK
SECONDARY LIGHT
SECONDARY DARK
SECONDARY MEDIUM
PRIMARY MEDIUM
.cprimary
.cprimary-lt
.cprimary-md
.cprimary-dk
PRIMARY GRADIENT .cprimary-gr
.csecondary
.csecondary-lt
.csecondary-md
.csecondary-dk
SECONDARY GRADIENT .csecondary-gr
WEB COLOR PALETTEDeviates from “official” colors
VERSION 1.6 - JAN 18 2017
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
WE
B C
OL
OR
PA
LE
TT
E
51
DC
CC
D G
RA
PHIC
STAN
DA
RD
S
RECOMMENDED WEB-RELATED READING
Many of the concepts in this document are derived from the following sources:
W3C Web Accessibility initiative, w3.org/wai
Don’t Make Me Think, Revisited: A Common Sense Approach to Web Usability (3rd Edition) Steve Krug, New Riders Publishing, 2014
Information Architecture for the World Wide Web, Louis Rosenfeld and Peter Morville, O’Reilly and Associates Inc., 2002
Designing Web Usability, Jakob Nielsen, New Riders Publishing, 2000
Please also refer to the DWAT myPortal Team Site: myportal.dcccd.edu/dwat
48
DIS
TR
ICT
ST
YL
E G
UID
E
RE
CO
MM
EN
DE
D W
EB
-R
EL
AT
ED
RE
AD
ING
52