Best Practices for Icon Design

Know the Context

Start with Standards
I always like to start off with some standards. Usually this means researching icons designed by others that I really like. So, I spend awhile pulling together my own roundup of favorite icon designs and come up with some best-in-class examples. This gives me a baseline and also helps me when I’m working with super-small designs like icons. It’s easy for me to get frustrated and feel like my palette has been dramatically limited. When I pull up some standards that I love, I tend to get excited and feel rejuvenated. This also helps me avoid pitfalls and break me out of my box. I have a few favorites I keep around, but I also always go and find some new ideas before getting started.Brand Awareness

Consistent Styling

Simplicity
Avoid complex designs with lots of different shapes and ideas. I’ve seen plenty of icon designs that integrate a background, multiple shapes, and a giant checkmark on top of all of these. That’s too much! Way too much! Keep icons simple. Their function is to give the user a fast visual reference. The simpler the design, the faster the interpretation. Too simple can be bad, too, of course. But the tendency in most cases is to go too far with too many design elements. Look at your icon and see if anything that doesn’t affect the idea can be eliminated. If so, cut it!Icons Should be…Iconic
This kind of goes back to not reinventing the wheel – there are a lot of well-defined icons out there that already communicate their respective messages. Integrate these into your designs and save yourself time – not to mention your users’ energy. For example, we’re all familiar with the obligatory RSS feed symbol used on just about every site these days. You already know what I’m talking about without having to see it. So when it’s time for you to make a customer RSS icon, don’t try to start from scratch. Implement that obvious symbol, add your brand’s touch, and move on.Create Multiple Sizes

Avoid Unnecessary Symbols

Avoid Icon-Internal Text

Frequently Asked Questions on Icon Design Best Practices
What are the key principles of effective icon design?
The key principles of effective icon design include simplicity, clarity, and recognizability. Icons should be simple and not overly detailed, as too much detail can make them confusing and hard to recognize. They should also be clear and easy to understand, conveying a single idea or concept. Recognizability is also crucial, as users should be able to instantly recognize what the icon represents.
How can I ensure my icons are user-friendly?
To ensure your icons are user-friendly, make sure they are intuitive and easy to understand. Avoid using abstract or complex designs that may confuse users. Also, ensure your icons are consistent in style and size to provide a seamless user experience. It’s also important to test your icons with users to get feedback and make necessary adjustments.
What are some common mistakes in icon design?
Some common mistakes in icon design include using too much detail, not considering cultural differences, and not testing icons with users. Overly detailed icons can be confusing and hard to recognize, especially on smaller screens. Cultural differences can also impact how an icon is perceived, so it’s important to consider your audience when designing icons. Lastly, not testing icons with users can lead to designs that are not user-friendly or intuitive.
How can I use color effectively in icon design?
Color can be a powerful tool in icon design, helping to convey meaning and draw attention. However, it’s important to use color sparingly and consistently. Too many colors can be overwhelming and confusing. Also, ensure the colors you choose are accessible to all users, including those with color vision deficiencies.
What tools can I use for icon design?
There are many tools available for icon design, including Adobe Illustrator, Sketch, and IconJar. These tools offer a range of features for designing and editing icons, including vector editing, color management, and export options.
How can I design icons for different platforms?
When designing icons for different platforms, it’s important to consider the specific guidelines and requirements of each platform. For example, iOS and Android have different icon sizes and styles. Also, consider the device and screen size, as this can impact how your icons are displayed and perceived.
How can I create a consistent icon set?
To create a consistent icon set, ensure all your icons share a common style and theme. This includes consistent shapes, colors, and line weights. Also, consider the spacing and alignment of your icons to ensure they look cohesive when displayed together.
How can I improve the recognizability of my icons?
To improve the recognizability of your icons, use familiar and intuitive designs. Avoid abstract or complex designs that may confuse users. Also, test your icons with users to get feedback and make necessary adjustments.
What are some best practices for icon usability?
Some best practices for icon usability include using labels to support icons, ensuring icons are large enough to be easily tapped on mobile devices, and using consistent iconography across your website or app.
How can I design accessible icons?
To design accessible icons, ensure your icons are clear and easy to understand, even for users with visual impairments. Use high contrast colors to ensure your icons are visible against their background. Also, consider providing alternative text for screen readers.
Tara Hornor has a degree in English and has found her niche writing about marketing, advertising, branding, graphic design, and desktop publishing. She is a Senior Editor for Creative Content Experts, a company that specializes in guest blogging and building backlinks. In addition to her writing career, Tara also enjoys spending time with her husband and two children.
Published in
·Design·Design & UX·Illustration·Photography & Imagery·Review·Sketch·Software·March 16, 2015