ERG branding handbook
At Red Hat, we commit to fostering an environment where each person feels seen, heard, and valued. We believe that the collective strength of our differences sparks open source innovation, and that our shared humanity unites us through a culture of belonging. Every day, we’re working to be a more inclusive company.
Part of that commitment means that Red Hat supports employee resource groups (ERGs)—voluntary, associate-led organizations that foster inclusion and belonging for their members. ERGs help to foster an inclusive workplace where all associates feel a sense of belonging at Red Hat and are empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. Our approach to ERG branding balances the communities' purpose with the need to represent the Red Hat brand faithfully.
ERGs use elements of the Red Hat brand, but in novel ways that represent the culture and experiences of their members. New ERGs are established in collaboration with Global Inclusion at Red Hat, and should work with the Brand and Experience Design team to develop a distinctive brand within the Red Hat ERG branding system.
Red Hatters can learn more about getting involved with our ERGs on The Source.
Elements of an ERG brand
Group name
ERG names always start with “Red Hat,” followed by a name that's descriptive and resonates with the members of the group. Different groups have taken different approaches to their names.
Group logo
ERG logos are based on our initiative logos, but use multiple colors to capture the spirit of the group. A custom icon (based on our icon guidelines) sits to the left of the ERG name.
Color palette
Each ERG pulls different colors from our secondary color palette to create a distinctive palette specific to their group. These colors are used in their logo, patterns, and other materials to create a cohesive brand. Some ERGs use colors in culturally-specific ways, so be sure to check the guidelines for each ERG.
Patterns
Patterns take elements from the ERG's icon and cultural touchstones and repeat them to create dynamic visuals that can be applied in a range of creative applications.
Imagery
Photos are a great way to show the ERGs in action. Consider taking photos during events that can be used in the future. You can also use headshots or portraits to highlight ERG members and their stories. In addition to photos, groups can use illustrations and collages from our libraries.
ERG logos
Clear space is the area around the logo that should not have text, distracting graphics, or other logos. This allows the logo to be legible and stand out. The clear space for ERG logos is at least the height of the letter "R" in the word "Red."
ERG logos are based on the same logo system as our initiative logos. They always include the full name of the group and an icon that celebrates their shared culture. Unlike initiative logos, the icons in ERG logos can be multi-color, always include black, and always sit to the left of the group name.
ERG logos are produced in 2 full color versions: standard and reverse. They're also produced in one-color versions, but you should use the full color versions unless there's a production constraint requiring only one color.
Use your full ERG logo as provided.
Not this: Do not use the icon alone. It may not be recognizable to everyone without context.
Not this: Do not co-brand ERG logos with Red Hat or other logos.
Not this: Do not disproportionately scale individual logo elements.
Not this: Do not change the colors in your ERG logo. The colors were chosen intentionally.
Applying elements of ERG branding
Each ERG has their own brand guidelines and presentation templates that make it easy to keep their brand consistent. Most of the time, the content and materials created by ERGs are intended to be used internally by the group and other Red Hatters. Those materials should use the ERG logo, colors, and patterns and don’t need to include the Red Hat logo.
A presentation to an internal audience should use the group’s presentation template that includes their ERG logo, not a Red Hat logo.
ERGs can use their logo, colors, and patterns to make their page on The Source reflect the culture and energy of their group.
Not this: Don’t include the Red Hat logo on internal-only materials.
Not this: Don’t use graphics or other elements supplied by outside organizations.
Not this: Don’t use fonts or colors that aren’t part of the Red Hat brand.
Not this: Don’t add ERG logos to existing Red Hat ads or graphics.
If an ERG wants to use materials externally—including for swag, social posts, or external events—they should have their materials reviewed and approved by Global Inclusion
When an ERG logo and the Red Hat logo are used together, the ERG logo should be largest and most prominent. The Red Hat logo should be smaller and in a separate area so that it’s clear that Red Hat plays a supporting role.
Social media posts from Red Hat-owned accounts that highlight ERGs must be reviewed by the Red Hat Communications team and include a Red Hat logo in addition to the ERG logo.
Swag is always external, so it should be reviewed and include a Red Hat logo. If possible, use two different imprint areas for the Red Hat and ERG logos.
Presentations to external audiences, like campus visits or community outreach, should be reviewed and use a template that includes the Red Hat logo as well as the ERG's logo and branding.
Have feedback on the Brand Standards? Submit it here.
Questions? Red Hatters can reach out via #help-brand on Slack.