Toward Consistency in Visual Information: Standardized Icons Based on Task
http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/stc/tc/2003/00000050/00000004/art00011
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  peer-reviewed

Gurak, Laura J.
Technical Communication Online
2003

Abstract:

Argues for continued work on developing standards for icon design. Suggests that icons should be standardized not just within products, but across applications. Suggests that icons be standardized based on the complexity of the task represented.