Metaphorical Connections to Interfaces: Guidance for Picking Icons Through a Contextual Approach

Abstract: This paper explores the implications of metaphorical elements in the contextof physical products that coexist with a digital interface, through an empiricand theoretical approach. Further, problematic aspects of the use ofmetaphors in a digital space will be discussed, and two prototypes will becreated to investigate how icons are perceived in different contexts.In cooperation with home-security company Verisure, the prototypes will beproduced and usability tested. Fundamental interaction design principleswill be implemented in order to investigate the impact of metaphor in iconbasedinteraction. These findings will be discussed and processed into a setof key factors to consider when working with icons.