New Zealand Icon Design

Icons are the signposts that guide visitors through the digital world. All icon symbols relate to their function making it simple for users to navigate by giving a self explanatory images.

Every website can get its own unique distinctive style.For each and every action or object, different icons can be drawn. These can have various styles, colors, concepts and ideas. A thought process with a professional stylish presentation can lead to brilliant icons. A well created, good looking icon set is a great way for a website to showcase its unique style.

There are normally 6 types of icons

1. Application Icons

   Application icons are used within computer software programs. Microsoft Word uses numerous small icons embedded in the software to convey the purpose of various functions
   
   

2. Avatars

   An avatar is a computer user's representation of himself/herself in the form of a two-dimensional icon (picture) used on Internet forums and other communities.
   
   

3. Desktop Icons

   Desktop icons are the most well known icons . They are used to convey use of functions on a computerin a graphic details way.The most common desktop icons are My computer,my Documents,Recycle Icons.
   
   

4. Emoticons

   An emoticon is a text drawing of a writer's mood or facial expression. They are often used to convey to the emotions or temper of a statement or writer.Mostly use in Yahoo,skype,MSN messengers like smilies.
   
   

5. Web site Icons

   Website icons are universally recognized and have descriptive attributes as they are represent the purpose of a function within the website.
   
   

6. Messenger Icons

   These Icons are used by communication devices like Messengers, Mobiles, VOIP phones. Icons used here are small, attractive and compatible with all applications
   
   A good icon set should have five essential features.First is simplicity .Each icon must be simle,neat and easy to understand. It must convey the idea of its functions instantly.Next comes consistency.The theme, style and look of the icon set must be uniform to emphasize its brand identity. Professional look for the icon is most important It should not look tacky or untidy or amateurish. Icons should enhance the look of application or website wherever its used. All icons must be universal breaking any barrier of language or region easy to comprehend world over. Finally size of the icon is important depending on the location of its requirement.