Information Graphics and Visual Clues: Communicating Information through Graphic Design

Rating:
Summary: Not really "information graphics"
Review: I bought this book based on the editorial description promise that it would explain how various information graphics "worked". Unfortunately, I found it to be more of an analysis of advertising graphics instead of information graphics.

Too many of the examples consist of various advertising campaigns or promotional material. Nice as they are, I don't classify them as information graphics; i.e., they don't convey information or instruction.

One good example of information graphics from the book would be the Burton Snowboards instruction manual. Here, clear graphics and judicious use of color provide users worldwide with simple, easily understood instructions, regardless of the language of the customer. Unfortunately, this type of example is the exception rather than the rule.

The majority of the examples in the book, while certainly clever and entertaining, are more like the Big Daddy Photography corporate identity project. The logo definitely creates a mood, but I would argue that it doesn't provide the viewer with any additional information about the company.

I gave the book two stars for overall appearance, and the few good examples. Any reader looking for infinitely more valuable sources on designing information graphics would be well served by simply buying all three of the Tufte books.

Rating:
Summary: "Why A Picture Is Still Worth 1,000 Words"
Review: Information Graphics is a terrific book, both as inspiration and as resource. I find I keep returning to it every few days, to be reminded of what is at the heart of graphic design: compelling visual ideas and visual organization. Ronnie Lipton has assembled some GREAT examples of clear wordless visuals, examples that help keep me focused on what I want my graphics to be. (BTW, does anyone know the name of that interesting typeface the book designers used for captions?) I highly recommend this book (and while you're at it, check out another Lipton title, "Designing Across Cultures").