As Leiden University, we want to appear recognisable, professional and reliable to students, staff and external partners.
We can achieve this by presenting ourselves as one strong brand. Why is this shared identity so important, and how do we all contribute? This ready-to-use presentation will help you explain this clearly to your colleagues or team.
Download the presentation (PPTX)
The power of a unified identity: why we need this
When an organisation presents different faces, this causes fragmentation and confusion. A clear, shared visual identity does the exact opposite. It increases our reach, strengthens our image and ensures we are instantly recognised. Clear guidelines on logos, colours, typography and visual style help us show that we are all part of the same strong university.
Tip: Use this presentation to start a conversation within your team or faculty about the importance of our house style. This will help build understanding and support.
What is in the presentation?
The presentation consists of a clear explanation and practical examples that you can use straight away. The slides cover:
- Recognition and trust: Why a consistent identity increases our impact and credibility.
- Preventing fragmentation: How we avoid confusion by presenting a unified face to the outside world.
- The building blocks of our house style: The role of our logo, colours, typography and photography in strengthening our reputation.
- Practical guidelines: How staff members can contribute to our overall look.
How to use the presentation
You don't have to show the presentation from start to finish. Feel free to adapt it to your needs:
- For a brief meeting: Choose the three or four most important slides to show why our house style matters.
- As an introduction for new colleagues: Go through the entire presentation to familiarise them with our brand philosophy.
- As a reference: Send the presentation round after a meeting as a clear summary.
Common misconceptions (and the reality)
Misconception 1: Having our own logo or separate style makes our department more unique.
The reality: By using our central house style, we benefit from the strong, trusted reputation of the university as a whole.
Misconception 2: The house style limits our creativity.
The reality: The house style provides a solid and recognisable foundation, allowing you to get creative within clear boundaries.
Finally: building the brand together
A brand is not just a logo or a colour; it is the feeling we project together. By consistently applying the same house style guidelines, we work together to build a reliable and recognisable Leiden University. Download the presentation below and get started straight away.