Conventional Sign Systems

Pictograms: 

Images or symbols used to warn, guide or protect that have a universal meaning so they can be easily understood. However this isn’t always the case as culture can impair understanding meaning pictograms need to be independent from culture to be universally understood. 

Semiotics:

The study of sign and meaning showing that sign systems are dependant on context, knowledge, society, culture as they can be easily misunderstood due to cultural difference around the world. 

Syntactics

In order for a sign system to be understood it must be formal, unambiguous and succinct. Pragmatics:  

The way in which context contributes to the meaning of the sign which can be seen in three different ways. 

Indicative, up to the receiver to decided what they do with the information given.

Imperative, receiver has to do what the symbols/information says

Suggestive, represents an appeal not to do something in order to persuade receiver.  

The Square: 

Symbolic object of a bounded place, dwelling place creating image of protection. Square on its end implies intention which is why it’s commonly used for traffic signs.  

Triangle: 

Placing a triangle on its apex it obtains direction giving nature as long as in a horizontal position therefor becoming a symbol for direction. However when a triangle is standing upright creates an impression of stability and permanence which is why it’s commonly used within traffic signs.  

Circle:

Addresses senses rather than the mind as feelings are addressed more strongly depending on weather the characters are placed inside or outside the circle.

Arrow:

Is an expression of movement and direction of form and shows a clear expression of movement in a similar way to the triangle.