One logo and house style for the Dutch National Government

A modern but sober stylization of the national coat of arms. This will become the new logo for the Dutch National Government.

All departments of the Dutch National Government, including all 13 Ministries, will be switching to one logo and house style over the next four years. This government-wide style is to be developed by Studio Dumbar. The initial version of the new logo was presented today by Prime Minister Balkenende during his weekly press conference. The definitive design should be complete by the middle of 2008.

For the first time in Dutch history, the National Government has decided to present a unified graphic identity nationwide, which will apply to all organizations that fall directly under ministerial responsibility. These include the 13 ministries, inspectorates and interdepartmental organizations. The goal is to apply the new house style completely in 2011.

The government is actively organizing its services according to the “one desk concept”. The goal is to improve communication and interaction between the citizens and government, and adoption of one house style for the entire government is part of this concept. The unified house style will contribute to clarity and accessibility, where the National Government now presents a very fragmented image. Eventually, dozens of organizations and departments that currently have their own logos and styles will adopt to the new identity.

(A similar project on a local government level has been very successful in the city of Amsterdam.)

Hans Stol, 21. Dec. 07