The guide Mortensen Design created for CPP makes life easier for users within the client company as well as key suppliers who have access. Rollover and pull-down menus take both Mac and Windows users directly to information on how to handle the company logos, type, and more. “For instance,” says Mortensen, “somebody needs a logo for the web. Click on the menu, and immediately the most desirable version comes up along with a menu of acceptable options. You just click the version you want to automatically download it. Or let’s say you need the two-color logo for the web, and you want the embossed version. This way, you never get the wrong logo. You don’t have to worry about users getting a JPEG file when they need a TIFF or EPS.” PDF versions of the guide are also provided for portability.

A comprehensive stationery system is a key component in any identity system. These pages illustrate why Flash programming contributed so much to usability of the CPP guide. On this page, users click to view an extra-large version of the business card, complete with call-out letters for production details. To see the details, simply mouse over the letter and specifications appear in the box below the card. Data for logos, colors, and other elements is provided in a similar manner. For example, to determine how much space to provide around a logo, roll over it and minimum space allowances are shown.

A “do’s and don’ts” section not only makes a useful contribution to an identity guide, it’s also interesting to users. This section shows how far one can go without breaking the rules. Like all elements in the site, it’s updatable without requiring reproduction and redistribution of physical manuals—a key advantage of putting reference materials on your intranet.