Statement

The visualization of complex information can be a daunting task. Through the course of this project, I’ve learned that despite how complicated the information may be, through the use of simple hierarchical strategies the designer can present a clear, perceptible system for readers to discern. 

My spreads are all about the idea of covering up – of elements covering each other, just as the stale technologies my icons represented have been covered up over time. This idea of layering is apparent in both the infographic and the spreads, however the physical integration of the two proved difficult because overlapping the graphic with the body copy proved illegible and unapproachable. However, leaving the graphic to its own space made it feel quite isolated from the integration that the previous spreads exhibited.

Another challenge was developing a consistent graphic language to help the reader understand bits of information within the infographic. For example, the red “murderers” of each icon, the speech bubbles, and the starburst shape announcing the years. I found that through consistent employment of these devices, I could establish a system for viewers to understand.

Overall, I found this project to be a helpful lesson in consistency, in systems, and conveying information. I’ve learned that the designer has an important responsibility to make the labyrinthian accessible, and that through clarity and consideration, the visualization of this information can be quite beautiful.