Overview
ISO 22727:2007 - Graphical symbols: Creation and design of public information symbols - specifies requirements and templates for creating public information symbols (icons intended to inform the general public, independently of language). It defines a formal creation procedure, minimum graphical parameters (line widths, element sizes, spacing), rules for indicating negation, and templates for submission of symbols for registration. The standard excludes safety signs (see ISO 7010) and traffic signs for public highways.
Key topics and requirements
- Creation procedure: Preliminary checks (confirm symbol is a public information symbol, not a safety sign), identify required meaning, check ISO 7001 for existing symbols, and assign meaning, function and image content.
- Design rules: Symbols must be comprehensible, distinct, and remain clear when reduced to 25% of template size.
- Templates: Use the templates specified in Clause 7; symbols should fit within template margins and make full use of the allowed area.
- Line width & spacing: Minimum 2 mm line thickness in the template (reducible to 0.5 mm only when necessary); minimum spacing between lines 1 mm.
- Element size: Individual graphical elements should be at least 2.5 mm × 2 mm within the template.
- Negation: Rules for indicating negation (negation element/negation bar) are specified so the opposite or absence of a meaning can be shown consistently.
- Combination rules: When combining symbols or elements, the combined meaning must be consistent with the component meanings; keep components minimal while preserving comprehensibility.
- Standardized elements: Use existing standardized representations (e.g., telephone, wheelchair) without modification.
- Evaluation: Comprehensibility testing is strongly recommended using ISO 9186-1 prior to submission for registration.
- Supporting annexes: Annex A–E provide guidance on colour/file formats, additional design guidelines, human figure and water representations, and a designer checklist.
Applications
ISO 22727 is used by:
- Graphic and wayfinding designers creating public information icons for airports, train stations, hospitals, museums, parks, tourist sites and commercial facilities.
- Sign manufacturers and print/wayfinding suppliers who need compliant templates and minimum graphical parameters.
- Public authorities and facility managers commissioning new icons or registering symbols with ISO/TC 145/SC 1.
- UX and accessibility teams ensuring visual clarity and cross‑cultural understanding of symbols.
Practical uses include designing location signs, service indicators (toilet, information, ticketing), tourism and cultural signage, and combined-function icons (e.g., slope + wheelchair).
Related standards
Keywords: ISO 22727:2007, public information symbols, graphical symbol design, symbol templates, line width, negation element, ISO 7001, wayfinding design.
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