Graphical symbols for consumer products in an international context

Graphical symbols are widely used on consumer and professional products. This paper discusses some of the practical issues involved in the design and application of graphical symbols, taking into account activities in the field of international standardisation and industrial practice. Special emphasis is given to the importance of understanding the role of graphical symbols in the communication process. The need to view the comprehension of graphical symbols as a usability issue is also stressed. Any meaningful statement about the comprehensibility of a graphical symbol must take users, tasks and context of use into account. The paper concludes with summary of guiding principles for designers based on the issues discussed.