Habitat-Signal Matching
Visual signals must be designed for the specific competitive environment.
Maximum contrast ensures the signal is detected against the specific background where it will be displayed.
Visual signal design is constrained by the environment where signals must operate. Many species have evolved visual signals that contrast maximally with their typical backgrounds - this is called 'conspicuousness.' Male anole lizards have brightly colored dewlaps (throat fans) that contrast with vegetation: species in green forests have orange or red dewlaps, while species in open brown habitats have white or blue dewlaps. Maximum contrast ensures the signal is detected against the specific background where it will be displayed.
Business Application of Habitat-Signal Matching
Visual signals must be designed for the specific competitive environment. Slack's bright colors differentiate against boring enterprise software; Goldman Sachs' conservative aesthetic signals stability in financial services. Context determines effective signal design.