Marq

Marq is a web-based desktop publishing software used to create branded marketing and communications materials, such as flyers, postcards, and digital signage.

Benefits of Marq 

Marq users will have access to an expansive portfolio of Johns Hopkins-branded templates created by University Communications. In addition to ease of use, standout features of Marq include:  

• Responsive User Profiles: Your division’s logo, unit name, and key photos will be attached to your Marq account, automatically loading in brand templates. 
• Direct-to-Print: Send your final materials to our local print partner, Alpha Graphics, directly through the Marq portal.  
• Hopkins Branding: Access Johns Hopkins University fonts, colors, images, patterns, and iconography in the Marq portal. 
• Custom Templates*: Create your own designs or use the InDesign import feature to establish templates specific to your department.  

*Feature reserved for graphics designers who have gone through specific Marq training.  

Template Library 

So, what is the ideal use case for Marq? To answer this question, it’s important to note that, while Marq is an empowering design portal, it is also a brand management tool.  

This means our brand assets, such as fonts and colors, are pre-defined and the layouts are locked down in many of the templates. Users still have plenty of opportunity to customize their content (think copy and photos), but they should expect to follow the template’s layout guardrails.  

Here are a few examples of how our Johns Hopkins University colleagues are using the portal:  

 

Universitywide Campaigns

For universitywide campaigns, such as JH Needs U, design assets and templates will be shared by University Communications via Marq. You will then be able to customize these templates to meet your division or unit’s needs.  

One-Pagers, Reports & Presentations

Prepare official documents and supporting materials for presentations, meetings, and informational campaigns.

 

Stationery System

Access official Johns Hopkins University stationery, including letterhead, envelopes, business cards, and greeting cards, in the Marq portal. All university employees are required to use the approved university stationery templates. Changes or alterations to the designs are not permitted unless a strategic need is presented.  

Event & Initiative Promotion

Create a suite of marketing materials, including invites, lawn signs, digital signs, and flyers, to promote and host your upcoming event or initiative. 

Access & Cost 

Marq is a great tool for communications generalists and designers alike! If you are responsible for creating any form of marketing content, from print to digital, you will quickly find Marq to be your go-to tool.  

If you’re interested in joining the platform, submit your Marq license request to University Communications. If you’re requesting access for multiple users, you’ll need to submit the form for each user. We’ll follow up to schedule a training session and confirm if the platform can meet your needs.  

A Marq license costs $250 per year, per user and departments will be billed at the beginning of the fiscal year via a cost transfer. Questions about licenses and billing can be directed to [email protected].