A methodology and interactive environment for iconic language design
We describe a design methodology for iconic languages based upon the theory of icon algebra to derive the meaning of iconic sentences. The design methodology serves two purposes. First of all, it is a descriptive model for the design process of the iconic languages used in the Minspeak? systems for augmentative communication. Second, it is also a prescriptive model for the design of other iconic languages for human-machine interface. An interactive design environment based upon this methodology is described. This investigation raises a number of interesting issues regarding iconic languages and iconic communications.