Signs and symbols as underlying foundations of our perception of the world in which we live, have always been a fundamental part of human communication. In this era of rapid technological advancements and instant communication, they found their place emerging as powerful tools for nonverbal communication, conveying meaning in a efficient, nuanced and creative manner.
UI icons
In user interfaces, icons serve as powerful visual elements that symbolize ideas, objects or actions. They can capture users’ attention towards essential information, instantly convey messages and facilitate intuitive interactions.
Ideation
There are few universal icons that represent idea or functionality that is common across different interfaces, such as home or search icon. Those are easily recognisable by users and they are no-brainers for designers. Apart from those, most icons have localised meaning which differs across interfaces. Finding the right symbol for the icon requires careful consideration of its intended meaning, context as well as the target audience.
Analysis
The first step in conceptualising a symbol that accurately conveys the intended meaning is analysis of its purpose, context and user expectations associated with it. It can also be very beneficial to search for related symbols within the interface or for similar terms or actions in different applications which might lead to finding symbols users are already familiar with, those that have the potential of becoming universally recognisable.
Consistency
When we are designing the symbol, uniqueness is not what we are aiming for. Related symbols, including symbols denoting opposites, e.g. “like” and “dislike” buttons or “back” and “forward” arrows, should be aligned with each other and their usage consistent within a set of icons used across the interface.
Abstraction
Finding appropriate, intuitive metaphors – those that are universally recognizable and culturally inclusive, can help create associations between the symbol and its meaning. In order to achieve simplicity and clarity of the icon, which in return ensures its quick recognition and understanding, complex concepts and details should be avoided. The final symbol should capture the very essence of the idea or action it stands for.
Cultural considerations
Some symbols can have different connotations and meanings across various cultures, locations or even different generations. Precaution should be taken to ensure that the chosen symbol is appropriate and does not unintentionally convey a different message in different cultural contexts.
Refinement
User feedback is invaluable for evaluating accuracy of users’ understanding of the intended meaning of the icons, how quickly they can recognise them and how they interact with them. Iterative refinement of the icons – of their design and also, if needed, of incorporated symbols and metaphors, ensures their memorability, optimal clarity and comprehension in various contexts.
