Icons are symbols that can be used to represent actions or operations and that are designed to convey ideas of information in a non-verbal manner. The use of icons continues to gain popularity in modern human-computer interfaces....[ Read more ]

Icons are symbols that can be used to represent actions or operations and that are designed to convey ideas of information in a non-verbal manner. The use of icons continues to gain popularity in modern human-computer interfaces.

This research focuses on a model for evaluating and understanding the appropriateness of computer icons. A hierarchical model has been built for appropriateness. The hierarchical model breaks down the appropriateness into two main components: the functional and non- functional components. The functional components are related to the intended meaning or function implied by the icon. The non-functional components are related to other aspects such as design and familiarity.

Another objective of the research was to evaluate the effects of the functional components, which are considered to be appropriate by its prospective users. The component functions of each icon were broken into elements and tested using Hong Kong Chinese subjects. The results of the questionnaires show that element 1 (action) significantly contributes to the meaning and appropriateness of icons. The results show that an icon could have symbols in different forms, layouts, languages and modes (Chinese, English, alphanumeric, pictorial, combined) and will still be considered appropriate by its users if element-1 is well represented. This research can be very useful for icon designers. Knowing the critical elements of an icon will help to better design icons and thereby be more suitable for their prospective users.