The Icon System developed over the course of three years at Edinburgh Napier University is a testament to the impact that icons can have on the visual language of an organization.
Initially, the icons were small elements that helped decode various aspects of university life and made plain text materials more visually appealing. They were designed to quickly and effectively depict abstract or complex ideas and guide the viewer’s attention to important information. Over time, these icons evolved into recognizable and essential branding elements, growing into subject- and use-specific icon families.
In addition to serving as a branding tool, the Icon System has also been used to create more complex illustrations and infographics for digital media and motion graphics. The basic form of the system is included as a library on the university’s Brand Hub.The Icon Library currently consists of several categories of icons, including general university icons, subject-specific university icons, Moodle icons, Covid icons, and Research Centers icons (in development). Each set of icons is designed to accurately and effectively communicate information specific to its purpose.
Wider context of the project:
Iconography is the study and interpretation of the visual images and symbols used in various art forms, such as painting, sculpture, and graphic design. In visual arts, iconography plays a significant role in conveying meaning and shaping the overall visual language of a work of art. Icons can be used in different contexts, such as religious, cultural, historical, and political, to communicate specific messages and themes.
In design context, iconography plays a crucial role in creating a visual language that is consistent, recognizable, and memorable. Icons are used in various design elements, such as logos, websites, apps, and product packaging, to help simplify and clarify information for the user. A well-designed icon system can make a design more accessible and intuitive, by using simple, recognizable symbols to convey complex ideas or information. Effective use of iconography in design requires careful consideration of the context, meaning, and cultural implications of the icons being used, as well as a clear understanding of the target audience and their needs. By combining simplicity, clarity, and cultural relevance, icons in design can play a key role in creating a strong visual identity for a brand or product.
Icons as building blocks of more complex visual elements, like infographics, data visualisations or illustration.
General university icons to use in print and digital materials whenever appropriate.
Icons in negative space. The main symbol can be enclosed in a Napier frame (square shape with a cut-out corner).
Icons in use: a bank card size concertina fold-out leaflet. The design features a concertina fold that allows the leaflet to open up like an accordion, displaying multiple panels of information. Because of its compact size, the leaflet can be easily carried in a pocket or bag. However, its limited space restricts the use of complex graphical elements or photos.
Subject-specific icons I created for use on course and school materials. Their primary use was to identify course areas and course groups, for example icon 101 is for Psychology, 114 is fo Nursing, 125 is for Acting and 134 is for Teaching.
Icons in use: Travel Survey banner with a family of transport mode icons.
Social media icon set. These icons are used to identify Instagram Highlights that have been grouped by theme or event. The use of the ENU red color complements the logo avatar.
Icons in use: University's Instagram profile screenshot.
Icons in use: simple marketing infographics. Because of the visual context they needed to be strong but monochromatic.
