The impact of different icon sets on the usability of a word processor

Abstract

This paper discusses the results of usability tests obtained when testing different sets of icons in a word processor environment. An alternative set of icons was developed for a subset of word processor functions and compared to the standard icons. The score obtained for completed tasks as well as the time taken to complete tasks successfully were evaluated. Results indicate that the score is not affected by the icons used in the interface. It was noted that word processor expertise and the icons used have a significant effect on the time taken to complete some tasks. However, each of these factors exhibits an effect in only a single task completed in the prototype. Possible reasons for the significant difference are discussed. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2007.