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Icons, Symbols, and Pointer Shapes


It may not always be possible to design an icon, pointer shape, or other graphical symbol that adequately represents the same object or function in different countries. Culture is inherent even in seemingly universal symbols. For example, sending and receiving mail is a commonly understood function, but representing that function with an icon of a mail box can be inappropriate because the appearance of mail boxes varies widely among countries. Therefore, an envelope may be a more appropriate icon. You should make sure that graphical symbols are localizable.

When used correctly, graphical symbols offer the following advantages:

Here are a few guidelines to follow when creating icons, symbols, or pointer shapes: