A traffic cone, in isolation, has no meaning. It is only when the cone is placed in a context that its purpose can be understood.

The placement of the cone is everything. Its location is its purpose. Its purpose is its usage context.

We say the same thing about software applications: functionality in isolation has no meaning. Its purpose can only be understood within a usage context.

From the point of view of UX design, we look at the traffic cone as a symbol for functionality.

In practice, when we design user interfaces, we pay careful attention to the usage contexts so that we can understand the real value and meaning of functional components.

Aside from that, traffic cones are a marvellous tool for sharpening the senses. If you learn to look at them, to notice them, you will find that you begin to notice more about your environment.

They are everywhere – so this exercise of heightening your visual awareness can be played at any time. Here are some practice cones: