This web graphic was designed by Brian Keller for MIT Web Communications Services.
The graphic on the MIT home page represents the letters "MIT" represented by diagrams of semaphore, a simple system of sending messages over medium distances, as between two ships at sea, using signal flags. In this system, each character has an associated positioning of both flags. This system is similar to other flag signalling systems, such as the International Maritime Flag signalling system, which uses a different flag for each letter. Semaphore, though, shares the speed and flexibility of other systems, such as lamp-based signalling.
The MIT home page is an interactive site with the goal of informing and engaging the MIT community and visitors. The Spotlight, with a changing graphic that calls attention to the new topic, supports MIT's mission and reflects the diversity of MIT itself. It does not represent a single voice but rather many voices, showing the Institute in a full and evolving way. The changing nature of the Spotlight reflects this goal of diversity by integrating and showcasing a multitude of aspects of MIT.
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Institute of Technology