Twin Cities Regional Information

Consultant guide

MnDOT often relies on external resources to deliver communications and engagement support on various projects. We have created the following style and process guide for external consultants to use when managing or working on communications and engagement activities on MnDOT’s behalf.

We are providing a copy of this guide to all consultants to eliminate errors and inconsistencies with MnDOT’s design and writing standards. In addition this guide outlines consultants legal and ethical obligations to provide material that is in Plain Language and ADA compliant to create universal access to information. MnDOT Communications and Engagement professionals will provide you with a copy and explanation of the most recent style and process guide at each project kickoff meeting. You will be expected to use the guide when creating or disseminating any MnDOT communications materials.

The guide provides you with a detailed overview of the production and dissemination process, and associated communications materials, including:

• Day-to-day updates, such as website and project email updates, as well as news releases and tweets
• Miscellaneous communications and engagement materials, such as factsheets, detour maps, mailings and brochures
• Materials review process

We have included multiple examples and templates in the guide to help you through the production and dissemination process. If you have any questions about the guide, please feel free to contact me. If any questions come up while you are working with MnDOT, please work directly with the public affairs coordinator assigned to the project.

Resource files

• Style Guide: Writing & Design Standards for Consultants & Clients
  • Appendix A: Minnesota Graphics Standards
  • Appendix B: Currently being updated
  • Appendix C: Factsheets
  • Appendix D: Posters
  • Appendix E: Brochures
  • Appendix F: Postcards
  • Appendix G: Maps (Design reference guide and examples)
  • Appendix H: Presentations
  • Appendix I: Formal Letters
  • Appendix J: Reports
  • Appendix K: Email draft
• Video production guidelines (PDF)

Accessibility and plain language

Produce all materials/collateral in Plain Language so that users can find what they need, understand what they find and use what they find to meet their needs.

Create all maps, graphics and web content in accordance with all state and federal laws relevant to the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance for people who may not be able to see, hear, or process information in particular formats or have difficulty reading or understanding text or may not be able to use a keyboard or mouse.