How can you create inclusive icons and graphics for all users?

1 Understand your users

The first step to creating inclusive icons and graphics is to understand who your users are, what they need, and how they perceive and interact with your product or service. You can use various methods, such as user research, personas, scenarios, and user testing, to gather insights and feedback from a diverse and representative sample of your target audience. You should also be aware of the cultural, social, and environmental factors that may influence how your users interpret and relate to your icons and graphics.

2 Choose clear and consistent symbols

The second step to creating inclusive icons and graphics is to choose symbols that are clear, consistent, and intuitive for your users. You should avoid using icons and graphics that are ambiguous, abstract, or unfamiliar, as they may confuse or mislead your users. You should also avoid using icons and graphics that rely on stereotypes, assumptions, or biases, as they may offend or exclude your users. Instead, you should use icons and graphics that are simple, recognizable, and relevant for your users, and that follow common conventions and standards. You should also use consistent styles, colors, sizes, and placements for your icons and graphics, and provide labels or tooltips when necessary.

3 Use inclusive and diverse representations

The third step to creating inclusive icons and graphics is to use representations that are inclusive and diverse for your users. You should avoid using icons and graphics that are generic, homogeneous, or exclusive, as they may not reflect the reality or diversity of your users. You should also avoid using icons and graphics that are insensitive, inappropriate, or disrespectful, as they may harm or alienate your users. Instead, you should use icons and graphics that are specific, varied, and respectful for your users, and that celebrate their identities, cultures, abilities, and experiences. You should also use icons and graphics that are adaptable, customizable, and responsive, and that allow your users to choose how they want to be represented.

4 Test and iterate your icons and graphics

The final step to creating inclusive icons and graphics is to test and iterate your icons and graphics with your users. You should not assume that your icons and graphics are inclusive and effective, but rather validate them with real feedback and data from your users. You should use various methods, such as usability testing, surveys, interviews, and analytics, to measure how your users understand, use, and feel about your icons and graphics. You should also be open to feedback, suggestions, and criticism from your users, and be willing to make changes and improvements to your icons and graphics based on their needs and preferences.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?