Foundations of iconography

This article discusses the foundations of iconography in user interface design. It defines icons as compact symbols that represent discrete objects, actions or ideas through visual metaphors. The article explores how icons convey meaning, their purposes in navigation, warnings, triggering actions and showing status. It discusses how context impacts icon comprehension, with culture and layout influencing interpretation. The article argues that effective icons are quickly readable, space-efficient, draw attention and are language agnostic. It closes by emphasizing the importance of intentional icon design.