Frequently Asked Questions About the IEEE Brand - IEEE Brand Experience

Frequently Asked Questions About the IEEE Brand

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Frequently Asked Questions About the IEEE Brand

The IEEE Brand is expressed through every point of interaction a person has with IEEE, from the brochure members read before they join to the conversations with volunteers or staff at an IEEE conference. It is more than just a logo—or in IEEE’s case, the IEEE Master Brand. Brand value is measured by how others feel about IEEE, and it is realized through every connection a person has with IEEE.

However, brand identity begins with what they see, and consistency builds trust. That’s why it is important to always follow the Brand Identity Guidelines which outline how to use the visual elements of the IEEE brand, including the IEEE Master Brand (logo) and Sub-Brand Architecture.

Below is a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the IEEE Brand and using the IEEE Brand Identity Guidelines.

General FAQs

The visual elements of the IEEE brand include the IEEE Master Brand (logo), color palettes, typography, imagery, and the design system (the wedge). These core elements work together to reinforce the personality of the IEEE Brand.

More information about the use of each element can be found in the IEEE Brand Identity Guidelines (PDF, 6 MB).

IEEE Master Brand, Color Pallate, and Wedge graphic from Brand Identity Guidelines.

IEEE Imagery, and Typography graphic from Brand Identity Guidelines.

The Brand Identity Guidelines explain how to use visual elements to create and strengthen the perception of the IEEE brand. The guidelines define the look and feel of IEEE and explain in detail the proper use of the IEEE Master Brand in a variety of print and web-based applications.

Also included are the Sub-Brand and Geographic Communities Guidelines, which outline the permitted use of any sub-brand type marks, visual treatments, or separate logos.

image of the brand identity guidelines cover page

Download the IEEE Brand Identity Guidelines (PDF, 6 MB)

Anyone who represents IEEE must use the Brand Identity Guidelines guidelines.

The guidelines are provided to ensure consistency in all materials that reach professionals, students, prospective members, and organizations. Your adherence to these guidelines guarantees the continued integrity and leadership of the IEEE Brand in the global technology community.

IEEE Brand Identity Guidelines (PDF, 6 MB)

Additional resources are available throughout the IEEE Brand Experience website:

Submit any questions via the IEEE Brand Inquiries Form.

IEEE Master Brand FAQs

Proper, careful, and prevalent use of the IEEE Master Brand will:

  • Give IEEE a consistent global identity worldwide
  • Ensure that IEEE organizations, products, services, and print and electronic materials will be immediately identified with IEEE
  • Enhance the IEEE name and reputation of technical excellence and help introduce IEEE to potential members and customers
  • Enhance the credibility of publications, events, and activities
  • Protect the IEEE name and brand from trademark and infringement

The IEEE Master Brand must be used on all IEEE print and screen-based applications (including publications, marketing and promotional materials, presentations, websites, conference and event materials, advertising, plaques, certificates, and giveaways).

IEEE Master Brand requirements for print and digital applications:

Print Color Usage
CMYK and Pantone

Digital Color Usage
RGB and HEX

Master Brand Colors
Only 3 colors: IEEE blue, black or white can be used in the Master brand.
(Page 7 of the brand identity guidelines)
Print usage of IEEE logos graphic.
Print usage of IEEE logos graphic.
Minimum Size
The IEEE Master Brand should always be legible.
(Page 9 of the brand identity guidelines)
Print size for IEEE logo.
Digital size for IEEE logo.
Clear Space
Ensures the IEEE Master Brand does not compete with other images, graphics and text.
(Page 9 of the brand identity guidelines)
Print size for IEEE logo.
Digital size for IEEE logo.
Limited Space Exceptions
If the minimum size and/or clear space cannot be met, the IEEE Master Brand should be as large as possible within the imprint area or space available. The IEEE Master Brand does not need to appear in a small ad, promotion, or social media channel when there are space constraints.(Page 11 of the brand identity guidelines)
IEEE Master brand generic banner.
Use With Other Logos and Identifiers
The IEEE Master Brand must have equal or greater prominence to other identifiers and logos. Do NOT manipulate the IEEE Master Brand in any way when creating a lock up with the Master Brand and another logo.
(Page 11 of the brand identity guidelines)
Example of IEEE logo with other logos.

Limited Space Exceptions: If the minimum size and/or clear space cannot be met, the IEEE Master Brand should be as large as possible within the allotted imprint area or space available. The IEEE Master Brand does not need to appear in a small ad, promotion, or social media channel when there are space constraints (Page 11 of the brand identity guidelines). The following exceptions are permitted:

Use a separator line above and/or below the Master Brand.

IEEE Master brand generic banner.

Use the IEEE identifier without the IEEE Master Brand.

Example of IEEE Master brand generic banner.

Use With Other Logos and Identifiers: The Master Brand must have equal or greater prominence to other identifiers and logos. Do NOT manipulate the IEEE Master Brand in any way when creating a lock up with the Master Brand and another logo. (Page 11 of the brand identity guidelines)

Examples of logos with IEEE logo lockup.

Download the IEEE Master Brand at: https://brand-experience.ieee.org/guidelines/master-brand-and-logos/

For more information, see the full IEEE Brand Identity Guidelines (PDF, 6 MB)

Download the IEEE Master Brand at http://www.ieee.org/masterbrand

File typeFile sizeResolutionBest used for
PNG3-10 KBLow – 72 dpiWeb/Screen/PPT
JPG31-77 KBLow – 72 dpiWeb/Screen/PPT
GIF2-7 KBLow – 72 dpiWeb/Screen/PPT
TIF42-150 KB (ZIP)High – 300 dpiPrint/T-shirts/Water Bottles
EPS656-715 KB (ZIP)High – 300 dpiPrint/T-shirts/Water Bottles
PDF599-651 KBHigh – 300 dpiPrint/T-shirts/Water Bottles

Example of the IEEE flag misuse.

No, the IEEE diamond shaped logo or IEEE "kite" is ONLY for use on membership grade indicators (pins or digital badges). Modifications, distortions, or graphic interpretations of the "kite" are strictly prohibited.

Two IEEE logos stacked.

Use the IEEE Master Brand on materials that contain other IEEE or organizations’ logos. Use the IEEE Master Brand + Tagline graphic on all corporate materials, or when no other logo or logo with a tagline exists.

Download the IEEE Master Brand at: https://brand-experience.ieee.org/guidelines/master-brand-and-logos/

IEEE members have permission to use the IEEE Master Brand only on their personal biography webpage with a link to ieee.org.

Guidelines to follow:

  • Use the IEEE Master Brand without the tagline
  • Download a fresh copy of the IEEE Master Brand from the IEEE Brand Experience site.
  • Print the IEEE Master Brand in one color only: IEEE blue, black, or white.
  • Maintain maximum visibility by keeping a sharp contrast between the background and IEEE Master Brand
  • The IEEE Master Brand cannot be combined with any other logo or mark, but may appear alongside other logos
  • Adhere to the clear space guidelines

Print usage of IEEE logos graphic.

Print size for IEEE logo.
A clear space equal to or greater than “1x” is required on all sides surrounding the IEEE Master Brand in printed applications.

Official IEEE Student Branches can use the the IEEE Master Brand on a graduation stole or sash in accordance with the IEEE Brand Identity Guidelines:

  • Choose the IEEE Master Brand with a tagline or no tagline
  • Print the IEEE Master Brand in one color only: IEEE blue, black, or white
  • Do not alter or change the IEEE Master Brand in any way
  • Adhere to the clear space guidelines

Download the IEEE Master Brand at: https://brand-experience.ieee.org/guidelines/master-brand-and-logos/

Two IEEE logos stacked.

Sub-Brand Resources FAQs

The IEEE Sub-Brand architecture standards define the relationship of tangible assets: promoting a consistent visual relationship throughout IEEE and protecting the equity of IEEE and its brand identity. Building a strong foundation for the entire IEEE family of brands will ensure that the IEEE Brand maintains its value.

IEEE Sub-Brand architecture:

Corporate Branding

Endorsed BrandingIndividual Branding
Entities representing the IEEE core operational functions. They do not have their own unique logo and only display the IEEE Master Brand.Entities have a visual association with IEEE, but also have unique aspects that may require a separate logo or visual treatment.Entities that have limited oversight by IEEE and may rely on another legal entity with its own guidelines.
IEEE Awards
IEEE Foundation
IEEE Membership
IEEE Organizational Units
In-Name Endorsement
(IEEE.tv; IEEE Xplore® Digital Library; IEEE Collabratec®)
Prefix Endorsement
(Affinity Groups; IEEE Conferences; Societies; Services; Technical Councils)
Geographic Communities
(Regions/Sections/Chapters;
IEEE SIGHT; Student Branches & Chapters)
Partnerships & Co-Branding
Co-Sponsored Conferences

Find more information on IEEE Sub-Brands on page 29 in the IEEE Brand Identity Guidelines (PDF, 6 MB)

In-Name Endorsement
Examples of "In-Name Endorsement" logos.

Prefix Endorsement
Examples of "Prefix Endorsement" logos.

Geographic Communities
Examples of "Geographic Communities" logos.

IEEE must always be used in the title of an IEEE product, service name, publication, or platform (IEEE Xplore® Digital Library, IEEE Photonics Journal, IEEE Region & Sections).

The letters I-E-E-E must appear in any visual representation, text, or signage where the product is listed. In these instances, only the letters I-E-E-E (not the full IEEE Master Brand) should be used.

Correct Usage
Examples of correct usage of IEEE identifier.

Incorrect Usage
Examples of incorrect usage of IEEE identifier.

The core elements of the IEEE Region visual identity are the brand mark, color palette, and fonts. Horizontal, stacked, text-only, and wedge block sub-brand identifiers are available for each Region.

Region Identifier, HorizontalExamples of IEEE identifier, horizontal

Region Identifier, StackedExamples of IEEE identifier, stacked.

Region IdentifierExamples of IEEE identifier.

Region ColorsExample of IEEE Regional colors.

Region TypographyExample of IEEE Regional typography.

Region Graphic ElementsExample of IEEE Regional graphic elements.

Region MapsExample of IEEE Regional maps.

Download IEEE Region identifiers (coming soon)
Download the IEEE Geographic Communities Identity Guidelines (PDF, 9 MB)

The core elements of any IEEE Section and Sub-Section visual identity are the brand mark, color palette, and fonts. IEEE Sections and Sub-Sections identifiers do NOT include icons or symbols within their identifiers. Please follow these guidelines:

  • FONT: Approved IEEE fonts (Formata/Calibri) should always be used. Font weights can vary.
  • COLOR: Colors from the approved IEEE palette should be used.
  • IEEE MASTER BRAND: Make sure to follow the minimum size, clear space, and background control as illustrated in the brand identity guidelines. A horizontal or vertical line must be used to separate the IEEE Master Brand from the IEEE Section or Sub-Section name.

Sections & Sub-Section FlagsExample of IEEE Sections & Sub-Sections flags.

Sections & Sub-Sections FlagsExample of IEEE Sections & Sub-Sections flags.

Sections & Sub-Sections TypographyExample of IEEE typography.

Sections & Sub-Sections ColorsExample of IEEE Sections colors.

Sections & Sub-Sections Graphic ElementsExample of IEEE Sections graphic elements.

Sections & Sub-Sections Website Header BannersExample of IEEE Sections website header banners.

Learn more about IEEE Section identifiers
Download the IEEE Geographic Communities Identity Guidelines (PDF, 9 MB)

The core elements of any IEEE Technical Chapters visual identity are the brand mark, color palette, and fonts. IEEE Sections and Sub-Sections identifiers do NOT include icons or symbols within their identifiers. Please follow these guidelines:

  • FONT: Approved IEEE fonts (Formata/Calibri) should always be used. Font weights can vary.
  • COLOR: Colors from the approved IEEE palette should be used.
  • IEEE MASTER BRAND: Make sure to follow the minimum size, clear space, and background control as illustrated in the brand identity guidelines. A horizontal or vertical line must be used to separate the IEEE Master Brand from the Chapter name.

Technical Chapters IdentifiersExample of IEEE Technical Chapters identifiers

Technical Chapters IdentifiersExample of IEEE Technical Chapters identifiers

Technical Chapters TypographyExample of IEEE typography.

Technical Chapters ColorsExample of IEEE Technical Chapters colors.

Technical Chapters Graphic ElementsExample of IEEE Technical Chapters graphic elements.

Technical Chapters Website Header BannersExample of IEEE Technical Chapters website header banners.

Download IEEE Technical Chapters identifiers (coming soon)
Download the IEEE Geographic Communities Identity Guidelines (PDF, 9 MB)

The core elements of any IEEE Student Branches and Chapters visual identity are the brand mark, color palette, and fonts. Icons or symbols are permitted for Student Branches/Student Chapter treatments but are NOT mandatory. Icons or symbols cannot be stock art nor make use of any university branding without permission. Please follow these guidelines:

  • FONT: Approved IEEE fonts (Formata/Calibri) should always be used. Font weights can vary.
  • COLOR: Colors from the approved IEEE palette should be used.
  • IEEE MASTER BRAND: Make sure to follow minimum size, clear space, and background control as illustrated in the brand identity guidelines. A horizontal or vertical line must be used to separate the IEEE Master Brand from the Student Branch or Chapter name.

Student Branches/Chapters IdentifiersExample of IEEE Student branches/chapters identifiers.

Student Branches/Chapters IdentifiersExample of IEEE Student branches/chapters identifiers.

Student Branches/Chapters TypographyExample of IEEE typography.

Student Branches/Chapters ColorsExample of IEEE Student branches/chapters colors.

Student Branches/Chapters Graphic ElementsExample of IEEE Student branches/chapters graphic elements.

Student Branches/Chapters Website Header BannersExample of IEEE Student branches/chapters website header banners.

View the entire IEEE Students Visual Identity Toolkit
Download the IEEE Geographic Communities Identity Guidelines (PDF, 9 MB)

These unique, geographic communities are local units of IEEE organizational units, or standing committees. Refer to available Visual Identity Guidelines for these unique group identifiers for brand rules specific to those entities, where applicable, such as guidance for creating local identifiers.

Example brand applications for local group identifiers:

Local Units IdentifiersExamples of IEEE local units identifiers.

Local Units IdentifiersExamples of IEEE local units identifiers.

View the IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE) Visual Identity Toolkit
Download the IEEE Young Professionals identity guidelines (PDF, 4 MB)
Download the IEEE HAC | IEEE SIGHT identity guidelines (PDF, 9.1 MB)
Download the IEEE Geographic Communities Identity Guidelines (PDF, 9 MB)

Tools and Resources FAQs

IEEE provides tools and resources for creating IEEE branded materials:

  • Assets and Guidelines – Provides IEEE employees, volunteers, and vendors who contribute to IEEE print materials and digital sites with IEEE brand, sub-brand assets (including logos), and guidelines. Also provides guidance on managing and creating IEEE websites.
  • Templates – Provides instructions, templates, and sample documents featuring the correct use of the IEEE brand elements, which can be customized for a variety of uses in print and digital mediums.
  • Toolkits – Provides marketing and communications toolkits for various IEEE entities and programs. Toolkits can contain guidelines for use, promotional copy, logos, flyers, posters, email templates, among other items.
  • Promo Library – Contains web and print promotional messages representing dozens of IEEE products and services, available to you at no charge. Use them in your marketing communications to extend the IEEE messages of value, quality, and service to the profession.

All representatives who create materials on behalf of IEEE are allowed to use the resources available on the IEEE Brand Experience website.

Submit suggestions for new templates via the IEEE Brand Inquiries Form.

IEEE Tagline FAQs

Advancing Technology for Humanity reminds the technology community and the world that IEEE stands at the forefront of technological change for the betterment of humanity.

These words reflect the IEEE mission and vision, positioning statement, and brand promise. IEEE accomplishes this overarching goal through its publications, conferences, educational programs, standards development, and IEEE members’ research and professional activities.

It is the hope that all individuals who see this tagline will better understand and appreciate the role that technology and IEEE play in creating a better tomorrow.

No, the IEEE Master Brand + Tagline graphic is NOT a "new" IEEE logo and does not "replace" the current IEEE Master Brand.

Use the Master Brand + Tagline graphic on materials when no other logo or logo with a tagline exists.

Corporate materials (presentation templates and letterhead used on behalf of IEEE) that incorporate the IEEE Master Brand + Tagline graphic have been created and are available for use.

Use the IEEE Master Brand when another logo or logo with a tagline exists, or when a small amount of space makes the tagline illegible. Also, all IEEE websites must include the IEEE Master Brand in the upper-right of the site header (only IEEE.org uses the IEEE Master Brand in the upper-left).

No, the tagline must always appear with the IEEE Master Brand in the prescribed size and position. It should never be used alone.

The one exception is when the tagline is used in an email signature displayed as:
IEEE – Advancing Technology for Humanity

For questions on tagline use, contact branding@ieee.org.