RGB, CMYK, and PMS

To ensure this consistency, it is important to use the right color system for the right application.

The colours of Leiden University must look the same everywhere: on a computer screen, in a brochure and on a flag. To ensure this consistency, there are colour systems: RGB, CMYK and PMS

RGB: For Everything on a Screen

RGB is the language of digital screens. Colors are created by mixing Red, Green, and Blue light. This is called an additive color system: when you combine all three colors at full intensity, you get white light. Without light, you get black (a screen that is turned off).

• When to use RGB? For all digital materials, such as websites, presentations, social media posts, videos, and online advertisements.
• How is it represented? RGB colors are often defined by RGB values (e.g., rgb(0, 32, 91)) or hexadecimal codes (e.g., #00205B), which you use in software and CMS systems.
• Please note: An RGB color on a screen can look different when printed.

CMYK: For Full-Color Printing

CMYK is the standard for full-color printing. This system works by mixing inks in Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (black) on paper. This is a subtractive system: the ink absorbs light. If you use no ink, you see the white color of the paper.

• When to use CMYK? For printing full-color materials like brochures, flyers, posters, and dissertations containing photos.
• How is it represented? CMYK values are expressed in percentages of each ink color (e.g., C100 M90 Y10 K50).
• Please note: The color spectrum of CMYK is smaller than that of RGB. Bright, vibrant screen colors can sometimes appear duller in print.

PMS (Pantone): for Guaranteed Color Consistency

The Pantone Matching System (PMS) is not a mix of base colors, but a standardized library of pre-mixed inks. Each color has a unique number, allowing a printer anywhere in the world to reproduce the exact same shade. This is crucial for brand identity.

• The Leiden University house style color is PMS 280 C.
• When to use PMS? For printed materials where color consistency is essential, such as logos on letterheads, business cards, flags, and merchandise. It is often used for print jobs with one or two specific colors.
• How is it represented? By a unique code, such as PMS 280 C. The letter (C or U) indicates the paper type: C for coated and U for uncoated.

In Summary: Which System Should You Choose?

Use this table as a quick guide to select the right color system.

Application	Color System	Example
Website, presentation, social media	RGB	An atmospheric image on a webpage or a chart in PowerPoint.
Brochure, flyer, dissertation (full-color)	CMYK	A printed folder with many photos and colorful elements.
Letterhead, business card, flag	PMS	The official university logo on printed materials to guarantee color consistency.

By consciously choosing the right color system, you ensure that the university's visual identity is always displayed professionally and consistently, everywhere.

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