Full Description
Packed with more than 200 colour illustrations, Visual Research explores a range of research methods that can be used by graphic designers and visual communicators in the development of clear and purposeful design solutions. The book introduces key terms and theories that underlie design research; examining the importance of visual grammar and design literacy, audience, communication theory and semiotics. Each chapter features case studies that demonstrate how the use of research methods can form the basis of effective visual communication and design problem solving, eschewing end product analysis for a discussion of the way research feeds into the design process. The third edition features new case studies in each chapter, updated design exercises and a new chapter on design-led tools and information design methods, in relation to both print and on-screen design.
Contents
ForewordIntroduction1. How and why?Research Methodologies Process and ProductDesign CommentatorsKey Concepts: The Designer as AuthorCase StudyDesign exercises2. Design Literacy Visual literacy in Design PracticeKey Concepts: Connotation and DenotationCase Study Design exercises. 3. Analysis and PropositionResearch and DesignFeedback and EvaluationLanguage and IdentitiesKey Concepts - RhetoricKey Concepts - Structuralism and SemioticsCase Study Design exercises4. Visual Tools of InquiryDesign-led research toolsCase StudyDesign exercises5. Theory in PracticeEngaging with Visual ResearchGraphic AuthorshipKey Concepts - Post-structuralismKey Concepts - Rubbish TheoryCase Study Design exercises6. Audience and MessageReceiving EndThe Construction of MeaningTwo-way CommunicationKey Concepts - Fitness LandscapeCase Study Design exercises7. Process and MaterialsPractical ConsiderationsTactility and UsabilityKey Concepts - AffordanceCase StudyDesign exercises8. SynthesisThe Process of SynthesisKey Concepts - Modernism and PostmodernismCase Study Design exercisesOnline ResourcesFurther ReadingIndexPicture CreditsAcknowledgements
