The AVSAA has developed a style guide based on a set of basic stylistic principles. We have created these rules in the best interest of the viewers and the creators of school announcements. These rules are simply recommendations, and schools are in no way “obliged” to follow them. It is highly recommended that they do follow them should they want to have quality announcements. If you feel like anything should be added or removed, please feel free to contact us with your suggestions.

AVSAA Style Guide

  • Aesthetics
    • Background
      • Use of chroma key background should be avoided unless the producers have technology sufficient to maintain professional quality. Otherwise, a static background is the best option.
      • Topic-specific images should not be utilized as backgrounds.
    • Text
      • Text should be legible on all displays that are used to view the announcements. It should be noted that many displays have inferior contrast and quality compared to those used to create the announcements. All displays should be checked to make sure that text configurations are legible.
      • To make text legible, the color of the text should contrast the background graphics.
      • Highly legible fonts should be used, notably sans-serif ones.
      • Attempt to refrain from using the default text overlays in programs such as iMovie or Windows Movie Maker, as these effects are widely recognized and compromise the professionalism of the piece.
      • Fonts that are designed to look “silly” should only be used when there is a “silly” context.
      • Comic sans and fonts that make capital I’s appear dotted should not be used.
  • Auditory Components
    • Scripts
      • Scripts should not feature sections in which announcers are intended to speak simultaneously.
      • Scripts should be written so they have a natural flow of conversation to them.
      • Scripts should not be entirely read word-for-word; this results in an awkward announcement. Instead, a list of topics to cover should be created to guide the announcers in fluent speech.
      • If a word-for-word script must be used, it should be written such that it can be read in a natural and relaxed manner.
      • Scripts should be reviewed and run before recording the announcements.
    • Music
      • Music should not be preset defaults that are included in the video editing software.
      • Music should not be added by playing music from one speaker and recording it into an editing program; this results in poor audio quality.
      • The music used should not be overpowering; the announcers should always be able to be heard clearly and the quality of speakers that will play the audio should be considered.