By: Mari Giampietri

Google's work tools formerly known as G suite, changed this 2020 to Google Workspace. That change was not only the name: they also changed their classic icons: Gmail, Drive, Keep, Docs, and Calendar. But this new icons has generated a lot of controversy and doubts (I must admit that I was also surprised). For this reason, I made this personal project: a case study of a new icon proposal for Google Workspace.

This meme floods social networks in a funny way shows the confusion that most Workspace users have by not having an easy identification of the icons.

This image makes a comparison of the old icons and the new ones. It must be admitted that the old icons had been used for years and had managed to remain etched in the minds of users, quickly identifying them in their daily use. Although it may seem like a minor change, icons play an important role as they are able to make a brand recognized with a single glance. Do the new icons fulfill that function?

For this case study, I decided to use Google's main solid colors to maintain visual consistency. I understand the brand's need to make its digital products keep the same style and look like the same family. Based on this I developed the following design.

I liked working on the redesign of these icons and seeing them from a different perspective, not only as a user but also as a designer. The challenge of maintaining visual consistency, brand unity and making the icons look from the same family was not easy but I feel that the result has been worth it.