I'd like to replace the icons that we use for our eProductivity Mail and Reference database. The Mail Icon, well, it's a mail icon and the red check mark communicates that it includes eProductivity functionality to make Getting Things Done in Notes, easy. I want to reference icon to communicate that this database is to be used to store nonactionable reference materials.

20081203_NotesIconsforeProductivity.jpg

I managed to cobble together the icon on the right showing what some users may recognize as a file drawer with 3-tab folders in it. I know we can do better than that. I'm just graphically challenged. 32x32 pixels in 16 colors isn't much to work with, but I've seen some amazing icons when those pixels are manipulated by someone with artistic talent.

I thought I would put this to the community by asking for suggestions either for an outstanding Icon designer or library. Perhaps I should hold a contest? Any ideas?

Discussion/Comments (4):

In the past, I’ve had some success using existing images and "making them fit"

For your file cabinet a google image search came up with this image { Link } . To be on the safe side, you'd probably want to spend a buck or two at one of the stock photography/image sites. Just make sure you have a square image. Reduce to 16 colors and resize to 32x32. The result will in many cases be usable. The blue file cabinet works surprisingly well.

Posted at 12/03/2008 12:44:33 by Joerg Michael


Looking for an outstanding Notes icon designer (or library)

I think stock icons are the way to go. The limitations on the Notes icons are really a pain, but as Joerg asserts, you can find some that work pretty well.

Try a site like Icon Archive ({ Link } ) and look for icons that are already using a small base number of colors.

If I get a chance, I'll try to come up with a few and send them your way.

Posted at 12/03/2008 13:43:18 by Chris Blatnick


re: In the past, I’ve had some success using existing images and "making them fit"

Thanks, Joerg. I'll see what I can find! I appreciate you sharing your experience.

Posted at 12/03/2008 13:46:15 by Eric Mack


re: Looking for an outstanding Notes icon designer (or library)

Thanks, Chris, that would be a huge help! Looking forward to seeing what you come up with.

Posted at 12/03/2008 13:46:55 by Eric Mack



Discussion for this entry is now closed.