Designing Icons for the Graphical User Interface

ISSN： 1462-6268

Source： Digital Creativity, Vol.10, Iss.2, 1999-06, pp. : 67-78

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Abstract

This paper addresses the issue of designing icons for the Graphical User Interface by exploring what design rules have evolved from established graphic design principles and, of these, which can be successfully adapted for the Graphical User Interface. By going towards a design criterion for computer icons it must be recognised that any change from one medium to another will alter the design possibilities. In order to establish what those design possibilities are, computer icons can be gauged against how other elements of design are used and their design criteria. Magazines direct the reader around the page by creating a positive reading order. Conflict, contrast or harmony can alter the relationship between design elements without altering their size, also optical and not mathematical centres decide the balance of elements used in any design. Computer icons are rarely designed as individuals, but as families. These families of icons are compared against other systems to establish what their requirements are and how this impacts upon icon design.