Information Design - Exercises

Week 01 - Week 02
Tai Tong En / 0363164 
Information Design / Bachelor of Design (Hons) In Creative Media
Exercises 1 & 2

---

INSTRUCTION

---

Timeframe: Week 01 - Week 02

Exercise 1: Quantifiable Information 
– Quantify raw data and visualize information as a photograph

A is a visual representation of numerical data that allows for easy interpretation and analysis. 

Instruction:
Gather a set of objects and separate it into category such as color, shape, pattern, and other quantifiable factor.

Example:
1. Box of Lego
2. Jar of button
3. Jar of marble ball
4. Set of colourful rubber strap

In this exercise you're required to quantify our chosen objects and arrange them into a presentable layout or chart. 
The information must be presented as is, and you need to arrange the objects with relevant indicators written out with pens to help you to visualize the quantity and data. The examples of objects that can be use are buttons, coins, lego pieces, M&Ms, and more.

Requirements
1. Photo of the random objects before sorting out
2. Objects sorted out by categories (2 - 5 category)
3. Write and design the information on a piece of papers.  

I decided to use M&Ms as they are what I have right now.

The next step is to organize it by gek accumulation. I organize it according to the color of the chocolates.

After that, I sorted them out by the size and color of the chocolates.

 I begin by designing the layout and at first I have no idea and trying many patterns...

Here, I've sorted them in a pattern of classic sizes encircling mini sizes, with the outer consisting of classic sizes and the inner being mini sizes, depending on the color of the chocolate.

I lay out them as a pattern as a six pointed star.

---

Timeframe: Week 3 - Week 4

Exercise 2: L.A.T.C.H principles

— Organise a group of information into a visual poster that combines and utilises the LATCH principles (Minimum 4). 

Instruction

Create a visual poster using the “LATCH” principles (Location, Alphabet, Time, Category, Hierarchy) to organise a set of information. Use digital editing software like “Photoshop”, “Illustrator’’ to arrange the data into an infographic. You can reuse existing images, but you must also create new visuals (icons, timelines, maps, etc.) to complete the design.

Requirements
Size resolution: A4 size

In this exercise we are instructed to create an infographic by following the L.A.T.C.H Principle. Mr Shamsul gave us some suggestions on what topic we want, but we can also use any topic we want, as long as we use at least 4 of 5 L.A.T.C.H elements.

First of all, I listed out the information I wanted to include into the infographic poster. I categorised them according to the time, which is the pepsi historical timeline. I listed down the information such as key events and milestones.

 

L.A.T.C.H

    L (Location): New Bern, North Carolina, USA, by Caleb Bradham

    A (Alphabet): Pepsi Generation

    T (Time): A vertical or horizontal timeline with key milestones (1893, 1903, 1975, etc.).

    C (Category): Sodas, Energy Drinks, Water, Juices, Snacks

    H (Hierarchy): Key Moments in Pepsi’s Brand

Visual Reference    

After organizing Pepsi’s information using LATCH, I explored Pinterest for infographic styles, starting with timelines but later considering geographical, comparison, categorization, and ranking infographics to enhance visualization. This helped refine my approach for a more engaging design.

Visual References

Sketches

After researching visual references, I began sketching. In the first sketch, I organized the information using a timeline (highlighting key Pepsi milestones) and categories (different product types like regular, diet, and zero sugar). This structure provides a clear and engaging way to present Pepsi’s evolution and variety.

Digitisation

Before working on the visuals, I first arranged the text of the information to see how much spaces they used within the A4 size artboard. 

After compiling the information, I began searching for visuals to include in the poster. I focused on different categories of Pepsi and selected well-known Pepsi series to highlight. By showcasing these iconic variations, I aimed to illustrate the brand's evolution and its impact over time.

Final L.A.T.C.H Infographic Poster

---

Feedback

Week 1 / Exercise 1

Try making and aranging more interesting picture by using m&m chocolates.

Week 2 / Exercise 2

-

---

Reflection

Through these exercises, I have been able to master the fundamentals of information design. I am able to comprehend how to visualize numerical data in an efficient manner thanks to the first activity. It may appear simple, but when organizing the data, we must take into account things like its distribution, linkages, and so forth. I now have a better grasp of how crucial it is to select the appropriate visualization strategies in order to accurately present data thanks to this exercise.

Exercise 2 helped me understand the fundamentals of information design by structuring Pepsi’s historical timeline in a clear and engaging way. I learned to select and prioritize key events, ensuring the information remained concise yet informative. Balancing text and visuals was crucial in maintaining clarity while keeping the infographic visually appealing. Through this process, I recognized the importance of chronological flow and how design elements like icons, colors, and typography can enhance readability.

Additionally, this exercise reinforced the significance of visual hierarchy in guiding the audience’s attention. By using distinct headings, spacing, and graphic elements, I was able to create a structured and easy-to-follow layout. Overall, this experience improved my ability to present complex data effectively, sharpening my data visualization and storytelling skills for more impactful infographic designs.