Canva Guidelines
Canva is a convenient and easy way to develop a wide variety of professionally designed communications without having extensive training in graphic design and complex design programs. However, without utilizing the components of our visual identity, these pieces will lose the connection to our existing brand recognition and dilute our overall message. Below are some standards and guidelines that will help all Canva creations align with the institutional brand.
Utilize the Brand Kit
Our visual identity standards as outlined on this portal apply to all University communications and extend to content created within Canva. Canva offers the ability to upload fonts, colors, logos and other assets to create a brand kit that is easily accessible while developing projects. It is strongly recommended to create a premium account that allows the ability to create this kit as it will help UWF units create pieces that are branded with ease.
Continue to Utilize UWF Brand Assets
While Canva offers a vast variety of stock graphics, photography, icons and gifs, it is encouraged to use photography assets developed by the University to showcase our students, facilities and beautiful campus. Though the use of icons and graphics developed by University Marketing and Communications is not required, it is encouraged in order to create a stronger connection to the University brand. When Canva generated graphics are used, they should be carefully considered and use a cohesive illustration style or complementing styles throughout any piece or series of pieces. Canva generated graphics should also be adapted to reflect the UWF color palette.
UWF Canva Templates Available
The Brand Portal templates webpage now includes Canva links for select UWF templates, allowing for a seamless integration of UWF brand assets within Canva. Use the drop down menu to filter them, and the link is included on each respective template tile. Check back for new templates as this set will continue to grow. Note that the user must have a Canva account and be logged into that account in order to access the Canva templates.
Permitted Projects and Review Process
Projects such as logos, badges or print advertisements should not be created in Canva as this platform does not have the appropriate capabilities to provide the dynamic and varied files needed for such purposes. Regardless of the design method, these kinds of projects must also be permitted by University Marketing and Communications in advance. Appropriate projects for creation in Canva are things such as social posts, flyers, handouts, folded brochures and presentations. Projects created in Canva follow the same brand review guidelines as outlined on the Brand Compliance Review form, and can be shared for review as a downloaded pdf or by sharing a link with brand@uwf.edu.
*University Marketing and Communications reserves the right to maintain institutional brand guidelines and best practice as it pertains to content and design. University Marketing and Communications also reserves the right to make changes at any time to its guidelines as our use of Canva expands.