Purdue Extension staff ask me a lot of questions. And there are some questions that I get asked a lot. This may be the Q&A to print out and post on your bulletin board, because here are my answers to five of those most frequently asked questions.

Question 1: Can I put the Purdue University name or logo on . . . fill-in-the-blank?

Answer: Purdue Marketing Communications (PMC) has very specific guidelines for using official Purdue University signatures, colors, and marks. For example, you cannot put the Purdue logo on clothing (such as T-shirts) or other items (such as cups or keychains) without receiving permission from PMC first — and PMC makes the final decisions regarding all uses of Purdue’s names and logos. In other words, don’t make T-shirts, ball caps, or any item of clothing without getting PMC’s permission first.

For details, see the Purdue Identity Graphics Standards Manual at www.pmc.purdue.edu/services/GraphicDesignServi/Purdue_Identity_Grap.html. To contact PMC, call (765) 494-2034.

When it comes to using the Purdue Extension identity, Agricultural Communication has developed a variety of templates for Word, Publisher, Outlook, and PowerPoint that incorporate the University and Extension logos. The templates have been approved for use, so it’s OK to use them as is.

To download the templates, visit the Purdue Extension Communication Survival Guide site at www.extension.purdue.edu/ktgmarketing/comsurvivalguide.

For all other uses of the Purdue Extension identity, please refer to the Purdue Extension Style Guide at www.agriculture.purdue.edu/agcomm/publishing/styleguide.html.

Question 2: I need a new sign. How do I make it work with Purdue University and Purdue Extension branding?

Answer: In 2007, most counties received one sign that showed you how to co-brand Purdue University, Purdue Extension, and your county. That sign is a template for all other signs.

Read more about these signs and download a PDF you can use with commercial printers by reading my previous Q&A, “New signs brand Purdue Extension.”

Question 3: We have an event coming up. Are there free give-aways that have the Purdue Extension identity on them?

Answer: Various specialists may have promotional fliers or handouts at different times of the year. Contact the campus specialists working in areas that fit your event or program to see if they have something you can use.

Otherwise, Danica Kirkpatrick, the Purdue Agriculture events and educational activities coordinator, may have some promotional handouts that are available for free.

Contact Kirkpatrick at: dkirkpat@purdue.edu or (765) 494-9113.

Question 4: Purdue Extension is just one of several organizations sponsoring a program or event. Which Purdue Extension logo should I use?

Answer: Before I answer this question, I think it’s a good idea to look at the sponsors and ask yourself a question first. Will there be so many logos on these materials that the flier or poster will resemble a NASCAR entry more than an educational program or event?

When it comes to logos, less is more. One is ideal. Two will work. But as the number grows, you might want to wave the yellow caution flag. If you have many sponsors, consider simply listing all of the sponsoring organizations. Not only will a list be more aesthetically pleasing, it may also save you some headaches. All too often, logos come in such a variety of shapes, sizes, and qualities that it can be a nightmare to put them all together.

However, if your materials aren’t in danger of looking like a car at the Brickyard 400, consult the Purdue Extension Style Guide to help you find the right logo.

Question 5: Can I change the Purdue University letterhead?

Answer: No . . .

The official Purdue Extension stationery (letterhead and envelopes) has been approved by the University, Purdue Extension, and the USDA. All three groups must approve any changes to the design.

To download Purdue Extension stationery for your county, visit www.agriculture.purdue.edu/agcomm/logos.

. . . and yes.

You can update the contact information in the footer of this stationery. Just remember: the overall look of the stationery cannot be changed.

Steve Cain, cain@purdue.edu

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