Moodle is an open source learning management system first launched in 2002 by Martin Dougiamas. The Moodle visual identity is built around a wordmark combined with a mortarboard symbol, the graduation cap traditionally worn at commencement ceremonies. The brand and word “Moodle” have trademark protection in many countries, with the trademarks owned by Moodle Pty Ltd or one of its associated entities. [1]
Design and History
Moodle’s official brand guidelines describe the logo as a combination of the wordmark and the mortarboard. The mortarboard has always been part of the logo, and it represents successful education, which is one of Moodle’s values. [2]
Moodle’s brand guidelines also specify how the logo should and should not be used. The logo must not be reproduced in solid unauthorized colors, the typeface must not be changed, and drop shadows or gradients must not be added. [2]
Moodle’s association with the color orange is longstanding. In 2014, Moodle ran a fundraising campaign called “Moodle is Orange,” which the company said allowed it to show how it represents itself. Moodle described itself in that context as bold, confident, warm, creative, playful, and bright, and stated that it remains orange. [3]
Meaning and Symbolism
According to Moodle’s official brand style guide, the mortarboard in the logo represents completing education with a graduation cap. The guide states that the mortarboard has always been part of the logo and that it represents successful education, one of Moodle’s values. [2]
Typography and Design
Moodle’s brand guidelines treat the logo as a fixed combination of wordmark and mortarboard. The guidelines explicitly prohibit changing the typeface of the logo, indicating that the wordmark typography is a fixed element of the identity rather than a variable component. [2]
Logo Index is an independent educational archive covering logos, visual identities and graphic design history. All trademarks and brand assets remain the property of their respective owners.
