This article is written by Codal's writer. It is about user experience designing and focus on icons for graphics.

1. Icons: Balancing Functionality and Design
By Tory Darling, ​Codal Inc
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Incorporating icons in design has become a standard in the way ux design agencies
create websites and apps. Done correctly, icons can visually express objects, actions
and ideas in a way that is both screen saving and aesthetically appealing.
Although, icons done incorrectly can lead to usability problems when designers mask
the functionality which results in the icons being difficult to recognize. Thus, in order for
an icon to be effective, ux services need to focus on whether the user adequately
recognizes and performs the desired tasks of the icons.
Types of Icons
Universal Icons
Universal icons are the most recognizable icons among users. They are commonly
known in both the way the icon looks as well as the functionality of the icon. Some
examples of these icons are the magnifying glass signally search, the shopping cart
signally the area of products for intent purchase, and the house
signally a direct to the home page.
Utilizing universal icons is a good way in making sure your user knows
how to nativage your website efficiently and effectively. But because
these icons are generic, ​ux designers​ tend to incorporate other icons
in effort to create a unique design.
Icons with Conflicting Meaning
Since ux designers are creating their own custom icons, conflicting
meaning icons have emerged. What is meant by ​conflicting
meaning​ is that the functionality associated with icons vary from
different interfaces. The most common example of this issue is the
functionality of “favorite” is sometimes represented as a star and
sometimes as a heart.

2. This results in icons being difficult to interpret and can result in user
experience design issues. It is critical to realize that an icon might
make sense when you are knowledgeable of the functionality, but
as a user you only have the icon to guide your actions or lack of
actions.
Conclusion
Ultimately, if you want your website and app to be used in the most effective manner,
using universal icons is the way to go. It is important that these icons are minimalist in
design and clearly depict what the object is portraying.
Although, this isn’t to say that ux designers shouldn’t incorporate unique icons into their
website or mobile app; there is just steps to take in order to make sure the functionality
of the icon is known the the user. An easy way to do this is add an action word that
describes clearly what the icon performs.
Looking for more insight on UX design services? Visit ​Codal’s blog​, or come talk to us
here​! We’d love to hear from you.
Codal Inc
App Development & UX Design Agency
www.codal.com