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Information Design Journal
Vol. 22:3 (2016) ► pp.249–265

Improving information design practice

A closer look at conceptual design methods

As novel tools and techniques for visualizing information grow popular, many information design solutions are increasingly demonstrating high technical and visual sophistication, but often at the expense of thoughtful, effective communication. This recurring phenomenon highlights an overemphasis on the production of design outputs and failure to understand the initial problem, content, and audience early in a project. We assert that ineffective information design results primarily from a lack of rigor in the conceptual stage of the design process, when critical decisions determine the end result. We propose 23 methods information designers may adopt to reinforce their conceptual design activities.

Keywords: design process, conceptual design, methods, professional practice, understanding, information design


This article is currently available as a sample article.

Published online: 19 January 2017
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https://doi.org/10.1075/idj.22.3.06pon
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Cited by

Cited by 2 other publications

Pontis, Sheila
2021. Understanding the impact of supporting conceptual information design. Information Design Journal 26:1 ► pp. 33 ff. DOI logo
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2020. Looking for Alternatives: Challenging Assumptions in Design Education. She Ji: The Journal of Design, Economics, and Innovation 6:2 ► pp. 228 ff. DOI logo

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