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Lockups

Lockups link together the UC logo with college names and other major units and programs in one single design. Lockups are not appropriate for every unit nor for every communication, and in most cases, the UC logo alone is the most appropriate mark. With that said, some content types or audiences may benefit from the added context a lockup provides. Please review the following guidelines before considering a lockup.

The only approved way for a unit or program to display its name as a logo is as part of a “lockup.” “Lockups” connect college names and other major units and programs to the university master brand. Lockups are not appropriate for every unit nor for every communication. Please review the following guidelines before considering a lockup. The Development and use of separate logos to represent the University of Cincinnati or programs is prohibited

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An example of a primary formal Lockup for the College-Conservatory of Music

Academic Unit Lockups

Formal and informal lockups have been created for all colleges and are available for download and immediate use. In most cases, the college-level lockup or the UC logo alone will be the most appropriate mark for all academic communication.

However, colleges are free to allow —or not allow— the use of departmental or smaller unit lockups. All such lockups must be approved by the appropriate college dean. It is strongly recommended that colleges seek guidance from their internal communications staff and/or the Brand Review Committee prior to proposing smaller unit lockups.

Non-Academic Unit Lockups

In most cases, the UC logo alone will be the most appropriate mark. Non-academic units should avoid using lockups.

Divisions and larger, umbrella units are free to allow —or not allow— the development and use of lockups, both at the division and smaller unit level. All non-academic lockups must be approved by the appropriate division head, VP or leadership team. In addition, it is strongly recommended that non-academic units seek guidance from the Brand Review Committee prior to proposing a unit lockup.

To determine whether a lockup is warranted, consider and be prepared to articulate the following:

  • Is it meaningful and necessary to the target audience? How? Why?
  • Can identifying or acknowledging a particular service or program be accomplished through messaging?
  • What is gained —or lost— with a lockup over use of the UC logo alone?
  • Does the unit have a retail or commercial mission?

Do's and Don'ts

  • Lockups must follow the prescribed template for font, type size, spacing and color.
  • Lockups replace all typographical arrangements for college names, even those previously approved. Seek guidance from the Brand Review Committee. 
  • Lockups are not allowed on standard business communication such as letterhead, business cards and forms. Standard business communication uses the UC logo alone.
  • Lockups are not permitted on digital platforms. Do not place lockups on landing pages, in email signatures, or in social media posts.
  • Lockups may be used in digital ads.
  • Lockups must follow naming policy guidelines. Seek guidance from the Office of Planning + Design + Construction. Due to production limitations, lockups cannot be replicated on embroidered merchandise. (is this accurate?)
  • A special embroidery template exists. Seek guidance from Trademarks and Licensing.