Toolbars with icons to represent various functions are a useful interface device, but if the user can't readily identify the function represented by the icon, they can be counterproductive. In designing toolbar icons, look at other applications to see what standards are already established. For example, many applications use a sheet of paper with a folded corner to represent a New File icon. There may be a better metaphor for this function, but representing it differently could confuse the user. It is also important to consider the cultural significance of images.
Many programs use a picture of a rural-style mailbox with a flag to represent mail functions.
In designing your own icons and images, try to keep them simple. Choosing Fonts Fonts are also an important part of your user interface, because they often communicate important information to the user. You need to select fonts that will be easily readable at different resolutions and on different types of displays. It's best to stick with simple sans serif or serif fonts where possible. Script and other decorative fonts generally look better in print than on screen, and can be difficult to read at smaller point sizes.