Template and Design Standard FAQs

Templates should generally be used as provided. Modifications should only be made when required to support the content.

Multiple versions of PowerPoint, poster and brochure templates are available to accommodate different content needs. You may add design elements within the template when they support the content, but you must not:

• Alter the SHA logo.
• Change header or footer layouts.
• Change approved template colours.
• Modify core template design elements. 

If your content requires significant adaptations, contact Communications for guidance. 

Yes, where appropriate. Images should be relevant to the content, support the message being communicated, and follow SHA photo, video and image guidelines. 

SHA templates are required for posters and other communications materials and are built within the SHA master brand.

A variety of template options are available, ranging from simple text-based formats to full-colour designs with imagery, allowing flexibility while maintaining a consistent SHA visual identity.

Review available template options before adding imagery. Communications can help identify a template that best suits your needs.

Any images used must:

• Be relevant to the content.
• Meet SHA photo, video and image guidelines.
• Be properly licensed and consented.

Clip art, cartoon-style graphics, satirical imagery and unapproved graphical elements are not permitted. Altering or customizing the SHA logo is strictly prohibited.

Approved SHA template colours should be used to maintain a consistent visual identity across the organization.

Historical facility or program or colour schemes are not part of the SHA Visual Identity Standards and should not be applied to new materials. Approved template variations and complementary colours provide flexibility while maintaining brand consistency.  

Calibri is the official SHA font and should be used in all materials.

Using a consistent font helps maintain a professional appearance and supports accessibility across SHA communications.

Calibri is the only font approved for use in SHA materials. Different treatments for headings, subheadings and body text are outlined in the Logo and Font Requirements Guide.

Templates are best accessed directly through the Intranet.

This helps ensure staff are using the most current versions and have access to the associated guidelines and standards.  

When using a template, download a copy to your computer and save your work as a separate file. Avoid sharing saved template files with others, as updated versions may be available on the Intranet. 

The PowerPoint templates are designed to maintain a consistent SHA visual identity while providing flexibility for various presentation needs.

Multiple template options are available to support different types of content. If your presentation requires significant customization, contact Communications for assistance.

Yes. Slides should be clear and uncluttered.

As a best practice:

• Limit slides to six lines of text where possible.
• Use bullet points.
• Keep content brief and concise.
• Use slides to reinforce key messages rather than reproduce your speaking notes. 

Communications maintains access to approved images and may be able to assist with sourcing materials.

You may also:

• Use your own photographs with appropriate consent.
• Purchase licensed stock photography.
• Use properly licensed images from external sources.

All imagery must comply with copyright, licensing and consent requirements. All images used in SHA print, intranet, digital, and external materials must be authentic, appropriately licensed, and sourced from approved channels. AI-generated images are not permitted for internal or external SHA communications materials. AI-generated images are not permitted for internal or external SHA communications materials. 

Most internet images are protected by copyright and may have licensing restrictions.

Using images without proper permission may result in copyright infringement and financial penalties. Always verify the source and licensing terms before using any image. 

Save and distribute presentations as PDF files whenever possible to preserve formatting and improve accessibility. 

Follow your area's existing processes for recording and audio support. If additional assistance is required, contact Communications.

There is currently no automated way to convert older presentations to current SHA templates. Existing presentations may need to be manually updated using the approved PowerPoint slide deck.