Do's & Don'ts for

Signature Usage

To uphold the integrity of our signatures, follow all usage guidelines including the do’s and don’ts, clear space, minimum size, color use and multi-unit signature setups. If you are unsure if your use of a signature meets guidelines, reach out to identity@missouri.edu for guidance.

Acronyms

Signatures do not include acronyms. The full unit name must be included in the signature. Acronyms may be used on second reference in copy.

Example of an acronym used in a signature vs a signature with the full unit name.

Alterations

Signatures may not be altered or recreated. This includes resizing any part of the signature, using a different font or adding text and graphics. Do not create your own signature. Only the official signature provided by Licensing & Brand Management may be used.

Example of a unit signature that has been altered vs the unaltered version.

Backgrounds

Do not place a signature over a photo or busy background.

Examples of a signature over a busy photo vs on a clean background.

Color

Do not invert the colors of the Stacked MU or recolor the signature. When using the 1-color signature, remember that the “MU” should always be lighter than the shield.

Incorrectly reversed signature on the left and the correct version on the right.

Distortion

Do not stretch or distort the signature in any way.

Example of a signature being distorted vs. an undistorted signature.

Effects

Do not add effects to a signature. This includes, but is not limited to, drop shadows, bevels, embossing, outlines, and inner or outer glows.

Example of a signature with a drop shadow effect applied vs a signature with no effects.

Multiple Signatures

Do not use multiple signatures on any material. Instead, we use a multi-unit signature. Reach out to reach out to identity@missouri.edu to request this setup.

Example of multiple signatures being used vs. the multi-unit signature setup.

Orientation

Signatures should not be rotated or angled unnaturally. Ensure the signature is always oriented in a way that is visually natural to the viewer on both digital and print materials.

Example of a signature being rotated vs a non-rotated signature.