Designing with Data

Case Study

Working Knowledge of Graphic Design Software and Digital Tools
The goal of this project was to explore how graphic designers leverage data to inform their designs. To complete my final project, I utilized Excel to evaluate data for appropriate visualization designs and Illustrator for graphics creation and layout. This project demonstrates my ability to use these digital tools to create a compelling visual story for an appealing and informative data-driven design.

Elements of Design
My social media infographic demonstrates that I can create an effective data visualization by applying various principles and elements of design. For example, I made a hierarchy to guide the viewer through the layout in a specific sequence by differentiating essential information from supporting data. For example, legends and labels are very helpful in understanding an infographic, but they should call for a lot less attention than titles and graphs. I achieved an evident hierarchy by applying principles like color contrast, scale, and balance. I used color contrast to pinpoint irregularities in a data set. I used ample negative space to separate different sections of the infographic and to achieve a less cluttered design. I used leading lines to create a sense of movement and help guide the viewer's eye through my data story. I achieved unity and cohesiveness through the repetition of graphic elements and a consistent color palette.

 Creative Self-Expression and Originality
For this project, I used the iterative approach to design thinking. Upon identifying my client’s goals and the audience’s needs, instead of proceeding to brainstorm for design inspiration, I focused on processing available data to determine the best graphs to translate large data sets into easily digestible visuals. Upon identifying my four graph types to include in the infographic, I produced several design iterations by creating visually pleasing layout options and assessing their effectiveness. My creative process began after settling on a layout that worked. My final design was informed by the requirements outlined in the design brief and enhanced through design elements that enriched the infographic both aesthetically and functionally.

Evidence of Thoughtful and Appropriate Critique Skills
I have incorporated in my final deliverable the constructive feedback I received from my professor and peers during the Designing with Data course. Upon reviewing my design later in the portfolio class, a classmate suggested that the graphics effectively complement the design and enhance the data story, but the overall design seemed crowded. To mitigate the busy appearance of my infographic, I increased the amount of white space between each section by reducing the font size in my descriptive paragraphs by a few points without sacrificing legibility.

Evidence of Following Directions
I followed closely the project specifications required in my Designing with Data course. Specifically, I created an 11x17-inch poster containing all the essential elements outlined in the client’s design brief, such as logo usage, color palette, and typography. In my initial project proposal, I stated my intent to use stock photography to enhance my infographic visually. However, I decided to limit the amount of graphics on the page in order not to crowd the design any further. The result was a much cleaner and professional-looking poster.

Craftsmanship and Attention to Detail
My social media infographic suggests that I approach my projects with care and great attention to detail. For example, it is apparent that I followed the brand guidelines outlined in the client design brief. I developed the color palette based on the brand color profile. I enhanced the design with high-resolution social media icons and made proper icon attributions. I used layout guides to maintain proper alignment and group related items together, which resulted in a logical, well-structured, and balanced layout.