Visual systems
What Is a Symbol Map? A Practical Guide to Visual Taxonomy
Build a useful symbol map with clear labels, documented relationships, and a manageable research scope.
Symbol Map Lab / category collection
Visual systems
Build symbol maps and logo studies with readable labels, purposeful groupings, and testable design decisions.
A connected reading path.
A collection becomes a visual system when its structure helps someone answer a question. These guides cover two different scales: organizing a symbol reference and comparing directions for a brand identity. Start with the mapping guide to separate a mark, its intended use, and the asset that contains it. Then use the logo guide to translate a brief into observable requirements. The emphasis is on clear decisions rather than universal claims about what a shape means.
Field notes in this collection
Visual systems
Logo Symbol Maps: Turn a Brand Brief into Visual Directions
Compare original logo directions with a practical brief, silhouette tests, and a clear identity handoff.
Put the reading into practice