plantronics connect program visual guidelines · relationships with channel partners through...

Plantronics Connect Program Visual Guidelines

2Plantronics Connect Partner Program – Visual Guidelines, V1, July 2013

Table of Contents

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Welcome to the Plantronics Connect Program 4

Plantronics Connect Values 5

Plantronics Connect Status Levels 5

Connecting in Style: Make the Greatest Impact Possible 6

IDENTITY TOOLKIT

Plantronics Connect Lock-up 8

Improper Usage 9

Exclusion Zone 10

Minimum Size 11

Connector Line 12

Color Palette 13

Gradients 14

Typography 15

DESIGN ELEMENTS

Plantronics Connect Program Wordmarks 18

Plantronics Connect Dots 19

World Map 20

Authorized Partner Badges 21

Connect University Achievement Certificates and Badges 22

Collateral Examples 23

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography Contact Sheet 29

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Trademark Usage 32

Contact Information 33


PROGRAM OVERVIEW


Welcome to the Plantronics Connect Program

The Plantronics Connect Program (Plantronics Connect) is a comprehensive program designed to energize our relationships with channel partners through training, programs, sales, marketing and technical support tailored to their specific needs.

The Connect Partner Program Terms and Conditions and other agreements between Plantronics and Connect Partners provide the requirements and benefits for Plantronics Connect participants. This document is a reference guide for Plantronics internal use and also for use by design vendors when creating communications related to Plantronics Connect.

Please use this document as your guide whenever you are creating any communications related to Plantronics Connect, whether you’re building collateral, direct marketing, emails or any other elements. Remember that these guidelines are an internal resource and should not be shared with prospects or customers.


Plantronics Connect Values

Plantronics Connect is a comprehensive partner program and infrastructure designed to give our channel partners the tools they need to continually enhance their skills, strengthen customer relationships and expand into new markets. Plantronics Connect values enhance skills and strengthen relationships.

The cornerstone of Plantronics Connect is a benefits framework that rewards engagement and initiative, not just sales figures. That is why we’ve built Plantronics Connect as a multi-tiered system that encourages a deeper connection between us and our channel partners.

Plantronics Connect Status Levels

The Plantronics Connect tiers allow Plantronics to engage directly with resellers at all levels, but more importantly, they help us focus the appropriate and targeted programs, time and resources where we will get the most return on investment. Naturally, our top-tier performers will receive most of our focus. However, it is important for the lower-level partners to be able to service their own needs.

Advancement from one Plantronics Connect level is not based solely on sales. Plantronics Connect goes deeper, rewarding our channel partners’ initiative in gaining new knowledge, delivering valuable customer feedback to us and pushing the boundaries of conventional sales practices.

To that end, each status level of Plantronics Connect offers a different degree of access and support, as well as an opportunity to engage more deeply with Plantronics as we partner for mutual success.

This chart offers a quick overview of the Plantronics North America Connect Program.

Other requirements and benefits exist. Please see the Plantronics Connect Benefits and Requirements overview for the details.


Connecting in Style: Make the Greatest Impact Possible

The following pages provide general design guidelines for Plantronics Connect, the Plantronics logo, our signature graphic elements, photography and typography, as well as insights into our identity strategy.

For in-depth guidelines governing the use of these elements, please refer to the Plantronics Brand Guidelines.

By observing these guidelines, your Plantronics Connect materials will be consistent with the Plantronics brand and make the greatest impact possible.


IDENTITY TOOLKIT


Plantronics Connect Lock-up: Standard Configuration

The source files provided may not be altered in any way.

The words “Plantronics” and “Connect” should always appear as a lockup. The Connect mark should always appear on a white background and clear space requirements must be followed, refer to page 10. Plantronics Connect has one primary typeface: Gesta Medium.

The Plantronics Connect lock-up must appear on the title page of all Plantronics Connect materials and communications to denote and leverage the brand relationship. For sizing rules, please refer to page 11; for placement guidelines, see pages 27-27.

The Plantronics Marketing Manager or project lead will provide graphic assets and photography as needed.

Please also visit FUSE and Image Library (Razuna) plantronics.razuna.com for more information.


Improper Usage

To protect the visual consistency of the Plantronics Connect lock-up, avoid improper color usage, backgrounds and placement.

Do not place the Plantronics Connect lock-up on top of a busy or distracting image, or close enough to a design object that the space requirements are violated.

The files provided must not be altered in any way other than sizing, with the aspect ratio preserved.

If you have any queries on the logo lock-up treatment, or a requirement for alternative versions please contact the brand team.

DON’T place the Connect mark on abusy or patterned background.

DON’T combine the mark with othershapes or graphics, or reverse the markout of a colored background.

DON’T use non-approved colors. DON’T outline the mark.


Exclusion Zone: Clear-space Requirements

To protect the integrity and consistency of the Plantronics Connect lock-up, a generous amount of clear space must appear around the lock-up. The clear space is determined by the x-height of the mark (shown as x). Do not allow type, colors or any other graphic device into this area.

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x

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xx


Minimum Size

While the Plantronics Connect lock-up may be reduced in size, it should maintain legibility and not be printed smaller than 1.5 inches (38.1mm) wide. For onscreen display, the logo should never be less than 108 pixels wide.

Any deviation from the minimum size must be approved by the Brand Team.

Please contact Legal and Brand Team for approval: [email protected]

1.5 inches or 38.1 millimeters 108 pixels


Connector Line

The connector line is an alternative graphic for use with the Plantronics Connect lock-up only.

When considering using the connector line, ensure that your design will remain simple and will give space to the Plantronics Connect lock-up and connector line as well as to the copy.

This graphic is generally used to delimit banners and headings, or to highlight key information, when space allows.

The Plantronics Connect lock-up should be at least one third of the width of an asset in order for the connector line to be used.

The connector line should only be used horizontally, and should not interfere with any content.

The connector line must always bleed over the edge of the asset.

The connector line should not be re-created, as the curve is relative to the Connect lock-up when resized.

Refer to page 33 to request art work.


Color Palette

The Plantronics Connect color system comprises three palettes: core colors, accent colors and neutral colors. These colors were specifically chosen to marry with the Plantronics brand personality, while establishing a unique program identity that stands out on its own. These are the only colors that may be used in any Plantronics Connect communications.

The core colors are the primary colors used in all Plantronics Connect communications. The accent colors can be used to amplify communications and add visual energy. The neutral colors are recommended mostly for typographic applications.

For hyperlinks and calls to action, the Connect green should be used. Please refer to the example on page 27.

For call-out boxes, please note that the accent green must and should only be used on the final page of a document. Call-out boxes elsewhere in the document may use the core and the lightest of the neutral colors.

The existing Plantronics brand colors can be used if a wider palette is needed. For guidance on the Plantronics brand color palette, see the brand guidelines.

CORE COLOR

PMS 300C

CMYK 100/44/0/0

RGB 38/121/193

HEX 2679c1

ACCENT

PMS 369C

CMYK 59/0/100/7

RGB 108/179/63

HEX 6CB33F

NEUTRAL

PMS 426

CMYK 0/0/0/99

RGB 38/35/36

HEX 262324

PMS 431C

CMYK 11/1/0/64

RGB 106/115/123

HEX 6A747C

PMS 427C

CMYK 11/1/0/54

RGB 108/115/122

HEX E5E6E6


Gradients

When applying this gradient, ensure it follows the color swatches outlined here. Then apply the gradient angle of 42 degrees. The Gradient Ramp Location is at 71%.

PMS 300C

CMYK 100/44/0/0

RGB 25/120/190

HEX 2570ad

PMS 653C

CMYK 100/58/0/21

RGB 0/85/150

HEX 144d81Gradient angle 42°

PMS 0

CMYK 0/0/0/0

RGB 255/255/255

HEX FFFFFF

PMS 427C

CMYK 0/0/0/20

RGB 209/211/212

HEX D1D3D4

GRADIENT RAMP LOCATION 71%


Gesta Light

abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 1234567890!;:/?,.£@&*()<+>”$©™

Gesta Regular


Gesta Medium


Gesta Bold


Typography

Plantronics Connect has one primary typeface: Gesta. This section provides guidelines for how the typeface should be used. There is flexibility in size, color, shade and weight. A license is required to use this font. If you have a channel partner who wants a cohesive, co-branded look and feel, they should be directed to purchase a license at myfonts.com. Both PC and Mac formats are available. Licensing information can be found at myfonts.com. Click on View license.

Microsoft Office Applications

Use Calibri for all materials created with Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. The range of weights available includes Regular, Bold and Italic. Calibri comes preinstalled with these Microsoft Office applications for both PC and Mac.

Use Arial for all elements created exclusively for online applications.


Before you can grow your business, you need to know where you want it to go.

Content Title Gesta Bold 14/16

CONNECT WITH US AT EVERY Headline Gesta Bold 18/22

Because we understand the complexity of the sales process, Connect supports each stage of your business.

Body Copy Gesta Regular 10/12


Subtitle Gesta Bold 12/12

Before you can grow your business, you need to know where you want it to go.Footnotes/Featured Texts Gesta Regular 7/11

Typography continued

By only using one primary typeface, it is important to retain a consistent typographic style and create a clear hierarchy of information within our communications.

The examples opposite illustrate the hierarchy. They do not constitute a designed layout, merely the Plantronics Connect typographic style and colors in principle.

The use of ALL CAPS should only be used sparingly in headlines within documents.

For examples of the typographic styles and colors please refer to page 25.

Because we understand the complexity of the sales process, Connect supports each stage of your business.

Call to Action/Links Gesta Bold 10/12


Call-Out Box Copy Gesta Light 14/16

• Before you can grow your business, you need to know where you want it to go.

Body Bullets - Blue PMS 300C,Gesta Regular 10/12

Connect With Us At Every


DESIGN ELEMENTS


Plantronics Connect Program Wordmarks

These icons visually identify and support Plantronics Connect programs and partner initiatives. The source files provided should not be altered in any way; each of the wordmarks should be considered as a lock-up with its own dot graphic. The dot graphics can stand alone, however the text element must always be accompanied by the dot graphic.


Plantronics Connect Dots

The hero graphic can be used across all of our assets, print and digital. These should always appear in Plantronics Connect blue, please refer to page 13. We recommend using it on solid backgrounds for maximum clarity, similar to the segment dots. However, segment dots can be used over images, placed in corners of images or placed in corners of assets. They should never be centralized. All of these dot icons can be resized, although they should never overpower or distract from the content and clear asset hierarchy. Furthermore, both the hero graphic and segment dots should never be cropped.

The segment dots should only ever be used with their corresponding Plantronics Connect wordmark or related piece of communication.

Buttons should always be highlighted with the Plantronics Connect accent green with white-out hero dots.

On Twitter, the cut-down version of the hero graphic illustrated here should be used on a white background.

HERO GRAPHIC

SEGMENT DOTS

CTA BUTTONS

TWITTER

Collaboration Reward & Value Developmpent Education

Engagement


World Map

The world map graphic is built up of light grey dots. This graphic can be used over both print and digital assets. Images and text can be overlaid on the world map graphic as long as there is a clear contrast between the two. This vector graphic can be used to highlight regions and as asset decoration.

PMS 7541C

CMYK 12/7/9/0

RGB 222/225/224

HEX DEE1E0


P L A T I N U M P A R T N E R

Authorized Partner Badges

These status badges have been developed to make it easy for our partners and distributors to leverage their prestigious relationship with Plantronics throughout their communication materials, as appropriate. The source files provided should not be altered in any way. The badges should maintain legibility at all times and should not be printed smaller than 1.5 inches (38.1mm) wide. For onscreen display, the badges should never be less than 108 pixels wide. Any deviation from the minimum size must be approved by the Brand Team.

Eligibility

Plantronics Connect badges may be used only by Authorized Distributors and Authorized Reseller Partners in the Plantronics Connect Program. Requirements and partner tier structure may vary by region.

Elements

The Plantronics Connect partner badges consist of three distinct elements: The Plantronics Connect lock-up, a partner descriptor and the gradient badge background.

A U T H O R I Z E D D I S T R I B U T O R A U T H O R I Z E D P A R T N E R P R E M I U M P A R T N E R

G O L D P A R T N E R S I L V E R P A R T N E R

A U T H O R I S E D D I S T R I B U T O R

A U T H O R I S E D P A R T N E R

C O N S U L T A N C Y P A R T N E R

P R E M I U M D I S T R I B U T O R

C E R T I F I E D P A R T N E R P R E M I U M P A R T N E R

S T R A T E G I C P A R T N E R

Global

China

Europe and Africa


Connect University Achievement Certificates, Badges and Icons

The Plantronics Connect University certificates and badges consist of two distinct elements: the Plantronics Connect lock-up and the Certificate Ribbon watermark.

There are four distinct Connect University icons: Certificate Ribbon, People, Sound-wave and Headset. Each icon represents a different type of training module.

When linking to the Connect University site, it is recommended to use the University Wordmark, see page 18.

C O N T A C T C E N T E R S A L E S S P E C I A L I S T

U C C E R T I F I E D

C O N T A C T C E N T E R C E R T I F I E D

U C S A L E S S P E C I A L I S T

U C T E C H N I C A L S P E C I A L I S T

C O N T A C T C E N T E RT E C H N I C A L S P E C I A L I S T

DON HOUSTON

SVP SALES, GLOBAL

THIS CERTIFICATE IS VALID UNTIL 20 APRIL 2016

J A M E S S M I T HF O R T H E A C H I E V E M E N T O F :

C O N T A C T C E N T E R S P E C I A L I S T

P L A N T R O N I C S R E C O G N I Z E S & C O N G R A T U L A T E S :

Individual Achievements Company Achievements

People Headset Certificate Ribbon Sound-wave

Connect University icons


Certificates Examples

Plantronics Connect partner certificates have been developed to make it easy for our partners and distributors to leverage their prestigious relationship with Plantronics.

Elements & Orientation

The Plantronics Connect partner certificates consist of two distinct elements: the Plantronics Connect lock-up and the world map graphic. These can appear in both portrait or landscape.

PHILIP VANHOUTTE

SVP & MANAGING DIRECTOR, EUROPE AND AFRICA

P R E M I U M D I S T R I B U T O RH A S B E E N A W A R D E D T H E S T A T U S :


C O M P A N Y A B CT H I S C E R T I F I C A T E C O N F I R M S :

Don Houston

SVP SALES, GLOBAL


C o M P A n Y A B Ct H I s C E R t I F I C A t E C o n F I R M s :

P R E M I u M P A R t n E RH A s B E E n A W A R D E D t H E s t A t u s :

An example of an E&A certificate

An example of a US certificate

Collateral Examples

Participants in Plantronics Connect can draw on our comprehensive collateral materials. They’re designed to make it easy to reach prospective participants and to communicate program goals and benefits. To give you an idea of what’s possible for your team, here are some examples of collateral pieces used by our US-based Connect Partners.


Editorial Example

In this example of the collateral you will see that all the text is aligned to the Plantronics Connect lock-up and Plantronics connector line.

We have chosen this particular image as it is a visual representation of the page title.

1. Plantronics Connect lock-up and connector line. The distance between the page edge and the start of the Plantronics Connect lock-up should be identical to the margin for the rest of the copy on the left-hand side of the page.

2. Photography

3. Headline

4. Subtitle

5. Body copy

6. Content title

7. Body bullets

8. Footnotes

Refer to page 15 for typography guides.

Better TogetherGrowth Through Partnership

There’s never been a better time to be in the audio device industry. And there’s no better company to keep than Plantronics.

The quality and breadth of of our technology and products are outstanding – and so is the support we offer our partners. Training programs, sales and marketing tools, incentives, samples and sales support – we do everything we can to help you grow your business with us, and grow your profits.

It’s a partnership for growth. Share the benefits. Join the Plantronics Connect Partner Program.

plantronics.com/connect

About The Program

Plantronics Connect is a channel program delivering real value to our reseller partners. Under Connect we’ll provide you with all the support your business needs, to help you plan, train, market and generate revenue.

You can sign up at one of several status levels that are determined by your anticipated performance as well as by the level of commitment you’ll be able to give. Every level has its benefits, rewarding you not just for the revenue you generate but for the initiative you show and the insights you share.

Whatever level you are at, you’ll have a clear path to success and a direct relationship with us here at Plantronics.

The program includes:

• Connect Deal Registration*

• Connect Rewards*

• Connect University

• Technical and pre-sales support

• Communications about products, trends and more

• Marketing development funds*

• Demand generation programs

• Marketing and sales tools, and support at your fingertips

It’s easy. It’s beneficial. It’s a relationship that will add to your knowledge, increase your revenue within your installed based and help your business grow into new markets.

*Benefits vary and depend on your participation and the level in which you qualify.

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5

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Editorial Example continued

In this example, the Plantronics Connect lock-up has been used. Again, all the body text is left-aligned to the position of the lock-up.

Using the quote as inspiration for the choice of photography, we have chosen this image; there is a clear link with the wording “Everything is right at your fingertips”.

1. Content Title

2. Body bullets

3. Photography

4. Call-out box

5. Footnotes

6. Plantronics Connect lock-up

Connect Deal Registration

• Potential for higher margins for new deals that qualify

• Protection for your hard work in seeking out new business

• Increased sales support to win deals

Connect Rewards

• Incentive program for all Connect partners

• Rewards you for sales and engagement activities

• Redeem points on a range of items from an extensive catalog

Connect University

• World-class training resource exclusively for Connect partners

• Resources range from product information and technical tips to market insight

• Achieve individual specialist status in Unifi ed Communications and/or Contact Center

• Recognize company-level achievement with offi cial Certifi cation status and marketing opportunities

• Earn Connect reward points as a thank you from Plantronics

Ongoing Communication

• Monthly Connect Newsletters and special announcements. Information about products, training, programs, offers, sales tools and more.

Sales and Marketing Resources

• Online Collateral Library: Download and order free Plantronics literature, or customize it with your info

• Marketing content: Images and approved copy for your own communications

• Sales aids: Presentations, brochures, sales tools

• Offi cial Plantronics Authorized Partner logo

• Tradeshow event support

Service and Care

• Connect Partner Hotline for specialized channel support

• Customer care hotline for prompt, hassle-free service

• Priority access to technical assistance and guidance for up-to-date info so you can keep your customers satisfi ed

• Industry leading warranties to extend the life of your customer’s headset

Business Development and Sales Support

• Campaign participation. Take part in Plantronics promotions and incentives

• Market Development Funds (MDF) can be available to support your marketing

• Sample programs, customer trials, and potential discounts

Hear what our partners say about the Connect Partner Program

Everything is right at your fi ngertips, from marketing products to promotions and training.

Connect Partner - Colleen R.

20154-ConnectOverview-V14-SM.indd 2 04/06/2013 10:27

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In this example of the collateral we have used the image to support the key call-out on the page.

The text has been divided into two columns, with the left column aligned to the Plantronics Connect lock-up and the right column aligned to the edge of the call-out box.

The footer is also aligned to the call-out box.

1. Photography

2. Call-out box copy

3. Call-out box

4. Content title

5. Subtitle

6. Body copy


Outstanding Service and Support

Advanced Replacement48 hour turnaround worldwide after verifi cation of warranty coverage.

Quality Replacement ProductsNew or refurbished, meeting new product quality standards.

Telephone SupportToll-free numbers are available worldwide with technical support

in 126 languages. Call 1-888-752-6876

Email SupportIdeal for receiving detailed written responses to complex issues, with a one business day response. Email

[email protected]

Online Self-helpExtensive online knowledge base available 24/7 in 14 languages

visit plantronics.com/support

Headset Usage Best PracticeTrain-the-trainer events on the management of audio headsets to enhance agent productivity and comfort.

Noise Exposure TestingOur range of testing services support customers’ efforts in managing employee well being and productivity.

Hygiene ServicesReplacing high contact consumables is important but it can be time consuming. We can relieve that burden. Extra ear cushions, ear tips and voice tubes replacements are available** to ensure user health and comfort.

Why partner with Plantronics?Hear what our customers say

98% said Plantronics audio quality and service and support were outstanding.*

96% said Plantronics product reliability and comfort, fi t and form factor options were outstanding.*

*In a TechValidate customer survey conducted in 2012. ** Replacement parts are available for sales separately.

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What I like most about Plantronics is that the company never stands still. Always introducing new technology and ideas and that has allowed me as an IT Manager to offer the best products to my fi rm.

Engineer, fi nancial services company

Partner With Us and See Your Revenue GrowGo to plantronics.com/connect and complete the simple application process.

If you are already a partner, you can log into the Connect Partner Portal at plantronics.com/partners

© 2013 Plantronics, Inc. All rights reserved.

Any Questions?

Call the Connect Partner Hotline at 800-682-0384 or email [email protected] or connect with Plantronics at plantronics.com/partners.

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1. Page title

2. Body copy

3. Photography

4. Call-out box

5. Content title

6. Body copy

7. Call to Action text


9. Footnotes


PHOTOGRAPHY


Photography

The Plantronics Brand Guidelines govern the use of photography for the Plantronics Connect Program. All rules from these guidelines apply.

The Plantronics Connect Program does allow for limited use of conceptual stock photography. See samples on the following pages. Plantronics lifestyle images should be used whenever possible.

Note that the Plantronics Marketing Manager or project lead must submit any new or project-specific stock photography to Brand Review for approval, prior to publication.

For guidance on product photography, see the Plantronics Brand Guidelines.


Photography continued


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION


Trademark Usage

Plantronics trademarks are among the company’s most important and valuable assets. They serve as a calling card in the marketplace by identifying Plantronics and its products and serve as a guarantee of consistent quality. Trademark rights will last forever if they are properly maintained and protected. Improper use of trademarks can result in the damage and even loss of trademark rights, so it is important to follow our usage guidelines.

Please contact [email protected] with questions related to the correct use of Plantronics trademarks.

The Plantronics Authorized Partner badge and the Connect mark are authorized for use by Plantronics Authorized Resellers only, and in accordance with the Plantronics Trademark Usage Guidelines. In the event a partner’s status changes, the partner shall immediately cease use of the Connect mark and partner badge. The Plantronics Authorized Distributor badge is authorized for use by Plantronics Authorized Distributors only and in accordance with the Distributor Agreement. In the event the distributor’s status changes, they must stop all use of the badge in accordance with the terms of the Distributor Agreement.


Contact Information

Details

Brand/Americas [email protected]

Brand/E&A [email protected] [email protected]

Brand/APAC [email protected]

Web/Digital Marketing/Americas [email protected]

Web/Digital Marketing/E&A [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Global

Image Library (Razuna) plantronics.razuna.com

Plantronics image, logo, and illustration library. Contact the Web team for login information: [email protected]

Media Resources plantronics.com/us/media-resources/products/

Images, logo files, videos

Trademark Information [email protected]

Web Development Tools plantronics.com/styleguide

Regional

E&A Portals sharepoint-emea/default.aspx

APAC Collateral Library plantronetapac.com

Channel partner portal; localized marketing materials. Login information is provided as applicable

Global/Internal

Brand Materials Go to this location for logo files, Adobe and Microsoft Office templates, and more. Brand Review Request Site Submit your requests here

Brand Review Request Site Submit your requests here

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