OverviewWe all use apps every day, from basic email, text messaging, and camera

OverviewWe all use apps every day, from basic email, text messaging, and camera to more elaborate, branded apps like Google News, Facebook, Instagram, Netflix, Disney+, Spotify, Peloton, Target, FedEx, Starbucks, and Door Dash. Apps help us quickly communicate, share, purchase, and consume content. Using a new app can be confusing or even intimidating at first, but once we know what all the buttons and icons mean, we’re able to quickly navigate to the things we like most.
When brands change their app icons, buttons, or general navigation, though, we can get thrown for a loop. It’s often only then that we must re-evaluate the various symbols to see if we understand what they mean. For example, an app about music or pop culture might use a fire icon to indicate hot new releases or hot news items. The same fire icon in a fitness app, though, might be confusing, even if we know the gymnasium offers hot yoga, steam rooms, and hot tubs.
Directions:For your initial post:
Take some time to analyze a favorite and highly frequented app of yours. Analyze it through the lens of visual communication and semiotics. Then respond to the following questions in your initial post:
What symbols/icons are present on the app, and for what are they used?
For example, a plus sign might be for making a new post; a sun might let you check the weather report; etc.)
Are the symbols/icons easy to find and use?
If yes, how can you tell?
If no, what could be done to better the situation?
Are any symbols/icons ambiguous or confusing?
If yes, explain which ones in detail, along with suggestions that would be clearer.
If no, suggest a new symbol/icon to add that would make using the app a better experience.
In your reply post to at least one peer:
Acknowledge your classmate’s analysis respectfully. Did they make you think differently about the symbols/icons in the app?
State whether you agree or disagree with their analysis, then state why. Be specific.
Responses should foster further discussion by exploring new lines of information, perspectives, and questions.
Lastly, responses should not contain mechanical or grammatical errors.