General Standards and Guidelines

Montage Use

1. Themed montages include key messages and imagery relevant to the subject matter and audience. Successful themes leverage the subject matter’s brand promise, benefits or value proposition and allow for a unique and memorable expression of the message.
     
2. It is permissible for elements to break the montage grid, especially when needed for uniquely shaped structures and added object emphasis. Use discretion when evaluating proportions of the element to the montage. 

3. Program and event themes which do not include a 3M montage do not support the brand identity and are therefore not allowed.
    
4. Some applications may be particularly challenging regarding irregular shapes or dimensions. There are not templates for every variation.  The brand identity system can usually be extended to most any applications. Compare the new layout to other applications to see if it supports the overall identity.

1. The 3M logo is not used differently for programs and events. Follow all logo standards.
      
2. New logos are not allowed. Program and event graphics, montages, and images are not to be used in a way that creates a new logo. The best way to avoid creating a new logo is never include the name of the program, product, or event in a graphic. It is permissible to create a message/word grouping that could also include an image or an object.

3. If a previous logo or graphic has been created and contains equity in the market, use it only as a layer or design element within the montage. Graphic elements such as plaid or specific shapes or patterns should be worked into the montage.

4. Anniversary graphics are short-lived themes and need to appear on many materials as secondary graphics. Avoid creating a graphic that looks like a new logo for the brand or organization. Keep the name of the brand or product or organization out of the graphic. Focus the message on the years and product or benefit of the product.

Typography

1. 3M approved typography for all messaging. Because most themes have related fonts or images associated with them, you may use them as a design element within the montage. Do not use them in place of 3M approved fonts.

2. Directional text on signs is set in black Helvetica Neue 67 Medium or 57 Regular Condensed.

3. On nametags, the name is set in black Helvetica Neue 67 Medium Condensed. The business unit or division name is set in black Helvetica Neue 57 Regular Condensed.