Thursday, May 18th, 2006 — 5:30 to 7:00pm
There will be networking from 5:00 - 5:30 before the event

Since the inception of the computer graphical user interface, icons have played an essential role in shaping our experience with digital technology. These small symbols are pervasive in most of our on-screen environments. From mobile phones to enterprise software, icons are an effective way to communicate complex ideas and help users navigate and interact with technology. They can contribute to the success of a product by making interfaces more appealing, intuitive and usable. Conversely, they can also contribute to confusion and hinder a user from achieving their goals with the product.

This talk will explore the icon design process and the goal of creating effective icons that enhance the user experience and increase the quality of your products. Through case studies for companies such as AOL, IBM Rational Software, Plantronics, and Yahoo, Mike will share with you some challenges and insights for creating icons in the different interface environments.

About Our Speaker

Mike Tam is a design consultant from the San Francisco Bay Area who focuses on helping companies develop meaningful experiences for their users. He has extensive design experience in creating interfaces and visual communications for interactive products that range from small mobile devices to complex enterprise software. For the past 10 years he has led the design of successful projects for world leading technology companies and startup clients that include AOL, HP, IBM Rational Software, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Plantronics, Sony, and Yahoo. Prior to becoming a consultant he was a user interface designer at IBM Rational Software, and a senior designer at AlbenFaris, a pioneering firm in design for interactive experiences. He has also taught user experience design at San Jose State University.

Location: VFS (Vancouver Film School)

The VFS Digital Design campus is located at 420 Homer Street between Pender and W. Hastings. Enter through the side door on the east side of Homer Street. The event will take place in Theatre 1 accessible from the main foyer. Reception will be in place to assist all guests.

Please arrive before 6pm since building doors lock at 6pm!

You must RSVP for this event!

Positive RSVPs only please: rsvp@vanue.com