FAQs

What is Google Analytics and how do I use it?

Google Analytics is a platform that collects data from your website that can be used to provide insights into your business and/or audience(s). The University has an “All BU” Google Analytics account implemented across its network of websites. However, it’s highly recommended that each department/school create and implement a separate account for data that is most relevant to them. Using the University’s account requires more knowledge on how to segment traffic that’s related to the website(s) you’re interested in.

Where can I learn more about Google Analytics?

Google Analytics has their own (free!) training academy.

Analytics Mania is also another great source for straightforward guidance.

If you have more specific questions, YouTube has a lot of content available by searching.

What is the BU Brand? Where can I find more information about how to use the BU Brand in my material?

The BU Brand is how we communicate with a consistent visual and written voice. Visit the Brand Guidelines website to find more information about BU logos, design, and more, or to sign up for our next Brand 101 workshop.

Where can I find the BU Brand guidelines?

Visit the Brand Guidelines website.

How do I get answers to questions about BU Brand guidelines?

Fill out this form and include any materials you would like to check the branding on.

How do I request a BU sub-brand logo?

Fill out our Request a Logo form and make sure to select “Brand-related inquiry” in the drop-down box.

Do student groups have to use the BU Brand on their material too?

Student groups are not required to use the BU Brand. However, if they want and are permitted to use the University plate on any materials, they are then bound by the Brand Guidelines. More guidance about this is available on the Student Group Collateral page of the BU Brand website.

How do I start a project?

Start by filling out this form on our website and telling us a bit about your project.

If I won’t be using MarCom, does BU have a list of preferred (or approved) external print production vendors?

Yes! We have a list of recommended printers, depending on the size and complexity of the job. Learn more at our Recommended Printers page.

How do I order stationery, business cards, or a new directory for our building?

Official Boston University stationery and business cards from the Artcraft Company can be ordered online through BUworks. Artcraft also maintains templates for building directories. Learn more on the Ordering BU Stationery page of our website.

How do I order table drapes for a college fair or other event?

You can order those through Artcraft. Artcraft has BU’s master logo, sub-brand signature artwork, and sub-brand logotype, along with our colors. Once Artcraft receives an order from BU, they send us a PDF proof so we can verify that the item is using the BU Brand correctly.

Can you give me the InDesign files for my project after the project is completed?

Unfortunately, we cannot send you the InDesign files for your project. We established the policy of not releasing our native InDesign files to clients across the University, for brand standards and quality-control purposes, as well as to maintain compliance with font copyrights and image usage rights.

How do I find a photographer for an event?

Please see our list of registered photographers. You can contact them directly for event coverage. For marketing images or larger events—such as Commencement, Matriculation, or Alumni Weekend—please contact BU Photography for scheduling.

How do I book a photographer for headshots?

For standard headshots, you can book directly with one of our registered photographers. For marketing-quality headshots, please contact BU Photography.

Where can I find free, brand-friendly BU images?

See our Free BU Stock Photography library for free, brand-friendly BU images and guidelines for using them.

Where can I find the BU for-purchase photo image library?

Only BU employees (faculty and staff) who are also registered users can access Cumulus, BU Photography’s image library. If you are a registered user, access the library on our website. If you aren’t a registered user but wish to sign up, fill out the form on our website. Please read these Cumulus Instructions for more information about using Cumulus.

Where can I find the Photo Release Form? 

You can download the Photo Release Form here.

I want general advice for how to use photography in my website or print material. How can I find help?

Please contact us at buphotos@bu.edu for assistance.

What is the best way to communicate my specifications, timing, budget, and proofing requirements to an outside vendor?

Email your printer detailing your request, with as many specifications as possible, and then follow up with a phone call.

After I have contacted an outside printer, how long on average does it take to receive an estimate?

You should receive an estimate within 24 hours and no later than 48 hours.

Can an outside vendor also do mailings? If so, what kinds of mailings?

Many printers can handle first-class, nonprofit, and matched mailings. Many vendors list their mailing capabilities in their entries on the Recommended Printers page. If a particular vendor does not, click on the link to their website or call them to get that information.

What is the best way to deliver my design files to an outside printer?

All vendors use a form of file transfer protocol. They will direct you on where to send your zipped files.

How do I request a press release?

The BU PR | Social Media team, in collaboration with editorial colleagues at BU Today and The Brink, uses narrative storytelling, blogs, or social channel promotion in lieu of press releases. For more information, please reach out to pr@bu.edu.

I am going to be interviewed on TV or radio; how can I get help preparing for this?

Contact BU Public Relations at 617-353-2240 or pr@bu.edu. We can help you prepare for an interview. Also, read our 10 Tips on Speaking with the Media.

How do I market or promote a campus event?

There are many ways to promote your event, using both on-campus resources and external channels. Visit the Marketing and Promoting Your Campus Event section of the PR | Social Media website.

Does BU use or offer an enterprise media database platform?

The BU PR | Social Media team does offer an enterprise tool option. Please reach out to pr@bu.edu for more information. Communicators may also use their preferred media database.

How do I update or add a faculty member to the BU Experts database?

If you already have a faculty profile on the BU Experts database, please contact us at pr@bu.edu with your requested changes. If you are interested in creating a profile, please fill out this form.

Where can I find guidelines for exterior signage?

Start by visiting the Exterior Signage section of the BU Brand website for information about guidelines, and then contact us if you need more information.

How do I place an ad on the BU BUS?

Visit the BU Shuttle website for information on requirements, process, and timeline.

How do I reserve a Warren Towers digital poster display case?

Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis, and you must be a BU department or student group with a poster for a BU event or initiative. There are several requirements for submission, so please review our page on Warren Towers Digital Poster Display Cases for more information.

How do I promote an event through social media?

See the Media & Social Promotion section of the BU PR | Social Media website to start, but you can always contact us directly if you need more help.

I want to start a new BU social media channel or revive an older one. Where should I start?

Start by developing a social media strategy. What do you want to accomplish with this account? How will you measure success and what will success look like?

What should I do if my BU account has become the target of trolls?

If you become the target of trolls, BU PR | Social Media is here to help. Read our page about What to Do If You Are Trolled.

How do I facilitate a social media takeover, Reddit Ask Me Anything, or other public social interaction?

Visit the Social Media section of the PR | Social Media website for more information about these and other web experiences. You can also reach out to the BU PR | Social Media team by emailing pr@bu.edu if you have any questions.

Does BU use or offer an enterprise social media management platform? 

The BU PR | Social Media team does offer an enterprise tool option. Please reach out to pr@bu.edu for more information. BU social media communicators may also use their preferred social media management tool to manage their channels.

How do I pitch a story idea to BU Today or The Brink, or to Bostonia for alumni news?

Your best approach to get an idea to any of our website editors is to email today@bu.edu. That email will reach the right person. It’s important when suggesting a story idea that you plan ahead and do not send an idea for a story 2–3 days in advance of an event. Think a few weeks ahead, at least, so we can plan accordingly if the idea seems like a good fit for us. Also, please include contact information and a minimum 1–2 paragraph summary of the idea.

How do I contact Bostonia if I have a letter to the editor or want to update my mailing information?

Visit the Bostonia website for information on how to update your information or contact us.

How do I submit a class note to Bostonia?

Submit a class note through the BU Alumni & Friends website.

I have an opinion about an important subject in the news. Is there a place for me to write about it?

We have various opinion columns, or op-ed opportunities, across our websites. We call them POV (for Point of View) or Expert Take (for more research-focused ideas). If you send your idea or finished essay to today@bu.edu, it will get forwarded to the appropriate editor. Typically, these pieces run 600–800 words in length.

Why did my comment never appear on BU Today?

Comments are approved throughout the day but not immediately upon submission, and not every comment gets approved. We moderate our comments and approve those that further the conversation or debate. We generally will not approve any comment that includes name-calling, ugly language, disparaging remarks, or personal or inappropriate information.

How do I book a videographer for an event?

We provide professional video crews with equipment. Fill out this form on our website and tell us about your event or project.

How much does it cost to produce a video?

There is no single answer to that question. Every project is different. Fill out this form on our website and tell us about your event or project.

Can I rent video equipment?

We provide professional production services (staff and equipment) and do not rent equipment.

Can I hire BU Productions for a production and livestream?

Yes. We handle the production component, and we partner with IS&T/LETS for livestreaming services. Fill out this form on our website and tell us about your event or project.

I am interested in filming on campus. Do I need to get permission? Who should I talk to?

Whether you are affiliated with BU or you’re an external producer or videographer, contact Public Relations to discuss your project.

How do I start a project?

Start by filling out this form on our website and telling us a bit about your project.

I’m experiencing a technical problem with my current BU website. How can I get help?

Start by submitting a help ticket with BU IS&T.

I need to maintain my department’s website but don’t know much about WordPress. Where can I find help?

BU IS&T offers two levels of training to help familiarize you with WordPress. Check the IS&T website for information about upcoming training sessions. If you have a group interested in training, contact IS&T directly to see if they can provide personalized training.

How do I get swag (T-shirts, water bottles, keychains, etc.) printed for an event?

BU Marketing & Communications does not produce swag, but we’re happy to work with you to find a vendor that does. We’re also happy to review your items to ensure they’re meeting BU Brand guidelines. See the Swag section of the BU Brand website for more information.

Can I order electronic stationery through BU?

Yes, you can! Learn more at our BU Brand website.