Entities
Every entity gets an unique visual, consistently applied everywhere.
Entities (colleagues, relations, files, tickets, contracts, etc.) appear constantly throughout the Suite, in timelines, lists, overlays, search results, and suggestions.
The Decision
Every entity gets a unique icon + color combination, consistently applied everywhere.
Consistency enables recognition. By using the same icon and color for each entity type everywhere it appears, users quickly build strong mental models.
Icon + Color pairing:
Each entity type has distinctive icon
Each entity type has specific color
Both are always used together
Why both?
Color alone: Insufficient for accessibility and colorblindness
Icon + color together: Maximum recognition and accessibility
Status indicators
Small badge positioned fixed to bottom-right of entity icon
Only available for entities with a status (e.g. tickets)
Different colors and icons indicate different statuses
Shows at-a-glance entity state
Tooltips on hover
Show entity type name
Show status name if applicable
Applies everywhere
All entity types get this treatment
Consistent across all contexts
Principles
Keep it simple
Visual pattern recognition is faster than reading labels
Reduces cognitive load: brain processes icons/colors instantly
Intuitive for beginners
Icons are semantically meaningful
Color reinforces categorization
Tooltip provides confirmation when learning
Powerful for experts
Pattern recognition becomes automatic
Can scan timelines and find specific entity types in milliseconds
Status badges enable quick triage without opening entities
Inclusive & forgiving
Icon + color redundancy works for colorblind users
High contrast ensures visibility
Tooltips provide fallback for any confusion
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