A short intro to symbols and Icons - How to design a Smartphone Icon - TIPS

1. GRAPHIC DESIGN
APP ICON DESIGN

2. Icon
 Iconic signs are those which resemble the object they
represent.
 It is directly related to what it represents, the
meaning is immediately evident.
 it can be a smaller part that represents a whole.

3. Symbols
 convey to the mind an image of something other than
itself.
 Can also be applied to colour.

4. Symbol or Icon?

5. Codes and Conventions of Icon Design
 Conventionally, words are not included: An icon is a
graphical representation of a word, concept, object or
operation.
 note that your app icon will always be presented with
the name of the application.

6. Codes and Conventions of Icon Design
Simple is good. Simple is clear.
 Icon design is all about expressing yourself clearly in a
confined amount of visual space.
 57x57 pixels (CODE)
 What is your app really all about? If you could only show
people one thing that would represent your entire app, what
would it be?
 Selecting a single object can work for some apps. If you
must have several objects interacting with each other, make
sure each and everyone of them is clearly defined and that
the interaction is unmistakingly clear.
 don’t clutter the space with unnecessary noise. As with all
design, the more you take away from it while still keeping
your message, the more clear that message will be.

7. Codes and Conventions of Icon Design
Details
 Don’t confuse simple with plain looking. When you’ve
found your conceptual masterpiece don’t hesitate to put
it over the top.
 Use an array of gradients, highlights and reflections anything to add emphasis.

8. Codes and Conventions of Icon Design
Stand out from the crowd
 Scrolling through the rows of the App/Play store, your
first point of contact with the customer is more than
often your application icon.
 Take steps to stand out from the hordes of other icons
out there, make design decisions that will take you away
from ’standard’ and swing you over to ’unique’.

9. Assignment Specifications
Design an icon for an (imaginary) mobile game, OR
Re-design an existing game icon.
 Make a plan - Use the creative process: Plan, Research, Concepts,
Final
 Consult the previous 4 slides for pointers.
 Your final icon will be 8”x8” (digital, suitable for print)
TIMELINE:
TUES/WEDS - Process work/Planning (Finish up “Your choice” tutorial)
THURS – Pen and Drawing Tutorial & Work Period
FRI – Work Period