Brand Consistency Checklist for Ads and Social Posts
Consistency requires discipline. This checklist provides a systematic review process to ensure every piece of creative content maintains brand standards.
Use this before publishing any ad or social media post.
Logo and Identity
Logo Usage
- [ ] Correct logo version used for context
- [ ] Logo at or above minimum size
- [ ] Required clear space maintained
- [ ] Logo not distorted or modified
- [ ] Logo visible and legible
- [ ] Background provides sufficient contrast
Brand Identity Elements
- [ ] Correct brand name spelling
- [ ] Trademark symbols where required
- [ ] No unauthorized modifications to identity elements
Color Consistency
Primary Colors
- [ ] Brand colors match exact specifications
- [ ] Primary color used dominantly
- [ ] Color combinations follow guidelines
- [ ] No off-brand colors introduced
Color Application
- [ ] Text readable against backgrounds
- [ ] Sufficient contrast for accessibility
- [ ] Color hierarchy followed
- [ ] Consistent across all elements
Typography
Font Usage
- [ ] Correct brand typeface used
- [ ] Appropriate font weights applied
- [ ] Font licensing compliance verified
- [ ] Fallback fonts applied correctly (when needed)
Text Styling
- [ ] Heading hierarchy followed
- [ ] Consistent capitalization style
- [ ] Line spacing within guidelines
- [ ] Text alignment consistent
Readability
- [ ] Text size appropriate for format
- [ ] Contrast ensures readability
- [ ] No text over busy backgrounds
- [ ] Mobile readability considered
Imagery
Photography
- [ ] Style matches brand guidelines
- [ ] Image quality meets standards
- [ ] Lighting appropriate for brand
- [ ] Subject matter on-brand
Graphics and Illustrations
- [ ] Style consistent with brand
- [ ] Colors match palette
- [ ] Quality and resolution appropriate
Image Treatment
- [ ] Filters/effects consistent
- [ ] Cropping follows guidelines
- [ ] No distortion or stretching
Voice and Messaging
Tone
- [ ] Matches brand voice description
- [ ] Appropriate for audience
- [ ] Consistent with other communications
Copy Quality
- [ ] Grammar and spelling correct
- [ ] Brand terminology used correctly
- [ ] No off-brand phrases or words
- [ ] Messaging clear and on-strategy
Legal Compliance
- [ ] Required disclaimers included
- [ ] Claims substantiated
- [ ] Competitive comparisons appropriate
- [ ] Regulatory requirements met
Platform-Specific
Format Requirements
- [ ] Correct dimensions for platform
- [ ] Safe zones respected
- [ ] Mobile display considered
- [ ] File format appropriate
Platform Guidelines
- [ ] Advertising policies followed
- [ ] Content restrictions observed
- [ ] CTA format appropriate for platform
Social Media Specific
Profile Consistency
- [ ] Profile image current and consistent
- [ ] Bio information accurate
- [ ] Links working
Post Elements
- [ ] Hashtags on-brand and appropriate
- [ ] Mentions and tags correct
- [ ] Links verified and working
- [ ] Emojis used consistently (if part of brand)
Engagement Voice
- [ ] Reply tone matches brand
- [ ] Consistency across team members
- [ ] Crisis guidelines followed (if applicable)
Ad Creative Specific
Offer Presentation
- [ ] Offer clearly stated
- [ ] Terms and conditions visible
- [ ] Expiration dates accurate
- [ ] Pricing correct
CTA
- [ ] Action clear and compelling
- [ ] Button or link visible
- [ ] Destination URL correct
- [ ] Landing page consistent with ad
Performance Elements
- [ ] Hook within first 3 seconds (video)
- [ ] Key message visible immediately
- [ ] Value proposition clear
Technical Quality
Resolution and Quality
- [ ] Image resolution sufficient
- [ ] No pixelation or blur
- [ ] Video quality appropriate
- [ ] Audio clear (if applicable)
File Specifications
- [ ] File size within limits
- [ ] Correct file format
- [ ] Color profile correct
Pre-Publish Review Process
Self-Review
- Distance check: View at actual display size
- Fresh eyes: Wait, then review again
- Checklist: Go through systematically
Peer Review
- [ ] Second set of eyes reviewed
- [ ] Feedback addressed
- [ ] Final sign-off obtained
Stakeholder Approval
- [ ] Required approvals obtained
- [ ] Revisions incorporated
- [ ] Documentation saved
Common Consistency Issues
Issue 1: Color Drift
Colors slightly off from brand palette. Prevention: Use exact color codes, never eyeball.
Issue 2: Font Substitution
Wrong fonts used when brand fonts unavailable. Prevention: Provide web-safe alternatives, ensure font access.
Issue 3: Logo Manipulation
Logo modified for "fit" or "creativity." Prevention: Clear guidelines, no exceptions policy.
Issue 4: Voice Inconsistency
Different team members writing in different tones. Prevention: Voice guidelines, example library, training.
Issue 5: Template Deviation
Templates modified beyond guidelines. Prevention: Lock critical elements, provide flexibility zones.
Quick Consistency Audit
For rapid review, check these five things:
- Logo: Correct, properly placed, clear space maintained?
- Colors: Brand colors, properly applied?
- Fonts: Brand typeface, correct styling?
- Voice: Sounds like the brand?
- Quality: Professional, polished, platform-appropriate?
If all five pass, deeper checklist likely passes too.
Conclusion
Consistency is not achieved through talent alone. It requires systematic checking and discipline.
Use this checklist for every piece of content. Adapt it. Make it habit. Consistency compounds into recognition and trust.
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— The Avocad Team