Branding

CRKN Logo

Every encounter audiences have with the CRKN identity is an opportunity to reinforce brand recognition. As a result, minimal variation on the organization’s logo should take place to maintain consistency and clarity.

MINIMUM SIZE OF LOGO

To uphold principles of legibility and proportion the CRKN logo may be reduced or enlarged. It must, however, adhere to the established minimum width guidelines based on the logo’s language application (Bilingual, English or French). See below for media-specific minimum widths.

LOGO ALIGNMENT

Both left and right alignment of the CRKN logo is permissible. When in doubt as to which orientation to choose, keep the principles of visual balance and proportion in mind.

PROTECTION ZONE AROUND THE LOGO

So as to avoid unnecessary visual competition for the CRKN identity, a protection zone around the perimeter of the logo must be honoured. A minimum space equivalent to the height of one "R" from "CRKN" is required to keep the logo clear of nearby imagery and type.

USE OF CRKN ICON

In rare instances, the CRKN icon may be used independent of the logo proper. The icon should never function as an alternative to the logo. However, it may be used as a secondary brand element in a low-prominence context (see: CRKN browser window tabs as an example).

UNACCEPTABLE USAGE

The CRKN visual identity must not be distorted in any way. Distortion includes any modification to the logo (other than size or approved colour variations) that would alter its original design by adding to, or removing, elements.

The logo will always appear on a horizontal axis. It must not be tilted or placed at any alternate angle, nor should it be placed in a shape.

• Use only the approved colour palette when reproducing the logo.
• Logo colours cannot be reversed.
• Use only the approved typeface when reproducing the logo.
• The logo must rest on a solid background. Never should it exist in a complex visual context that will obscure its legibility.
• The logo is not to be used as a design element or as part of a headline, sentence or phrase.

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CRKN Logo Colour:

• JPG format
• EPS format

CRKN Logo Black & White

• JPG format
• EPS format

About the Logo

The CRKN logo is a graphic representation of the organization’s core values and purpose. It reflects the collaborative spirit of universities across Canada whose combined efforts facilitate digital access to knowledge.

The logo consists of a globe encircled by stylized maple leaves—a treatment which speaks to CRKN’s efforts to license access to the best of global knowledge for the benefit of students and researchers across Canada.

The globe also represents the World Wide Web—the primary vehicle by which students and researchers access CRKN-licensed publications and information.

The circular aspect of the logo signifies the way in which CRKN and its partners work cooperatively in a mutually-beneficial and interdependent fashion.

The primary stylized maple leaf (shaded red) represents CRKN’s Canadian origins, membership and focus. It coordinates with the secondary maple leaves (shaded grey), which represent the organization’s dedication to pan-Canadian participation and member contribution.

The maple leaves also form arrows and vectors of movement, which denote vibrancy and momentum as well as a commitment to continuous improvement in the building of research capacity in Canada’s universities.