Nathan Manning Twitter: @nathanmanning

Connect: bit.ly/nathanmanning

Secrets of Great Mobile App Icons

Why Icons Matter

• App advertising costs are high... and

rising

• But, developers still have direct

control over product marketing –

screenshots, descriptions, product

name, and icon

• Remember: your icon is your most

important asset – it is the first thing

your customers will see

KISS (Keep is Super Simple)

• You have a small space to work with

– don’t make it crowded

• So, focus on one key character or

symbol that tells your story

• Always view your icon in its true size

(on mobile) before finalizing the

design

Create an Emotional Connection • Use images that hook your

customers’ visual interest

• Leverage Sally Hogshead’s

«fascination» triggers: humor,

passion, mystery, intrigue, power,

trust and lust to create interest

• Take chances – anything is better

than being ignored!

Create Consistency Across Assets

• Create a consistent look and feel

across website, communities, icon,

screenshots, etc – you’re creating a

brand, not just a product

• Users will find your app easier if

they know what to look for

• Consistency will also increase your

conversion rate and help to create

an emotional connection with users

Make Your Icon Stand Out

• Use bright colors (doesn’t have to

be red or orange)

• Consider depth and texture in your

app design

• Look into the use of a well

constructed border

Test Before You Launch

• If you have a strong social media

community, use it to get feedback

• Allow your followers to vote on

marketing assets

• In addition to feedback, this will

make your fans more emotionally

invested in the success of your game

Nathan Manning Twitter: @nathanmanning

Connect: bit.ly/nathanmanning