Illustration Principles
DNA illustrations are meant to be helpful, relatable and clear. We want to help connect people with our product in a more personal way. We should present complex information in a clear and approachable manner and guide the users smoothly through their tasks.
Be Helpful
Our illustrations should help users to better understand a concept or a situation. They are meant to clarify but should not distract the user from getting their work done. Stylistically, they are simple and light, complementing the surrounding UI and color palette.
Be Relatable
We want to show that we empathize with and value our users. Our illustrations strive to be inclusive, so that users of all types, ages, races and genders can understand and connect with them.
Our illustrations use lines and symbols to express emotion and suggest movement. Their style is more organic and approachable. They help us tell stories that people can relate to.
Be Clear
Our illustrations help clarify difficult processes by providing simple visual triggers. We avoid telling multiple stories in one illustration and try to be as direct as possible. We use metaphor, when appropriate, to help convey more complex concepts.
When to Use Illustrations
We use illustrations to:
- Enrich on-boarding experience for first-time users
- Deliver creative introduction tutorials and what’s new banners
- Simplify complex processes or concepts
- Provide guidance in error or blank pages
- Provide a break from copy overload
- Accompany animations or videos
Considerations on Making Illustrations
More information on copyright law on the SAP Legal Portal.
Horizon Illustration Creation Kit
The Illustration Creation Kit is a library for illustration assets and an overview of all existing illustration libraries.