Contact:cdent@burningchrome.com
Passini, R. (1999). Sign-posting information design. In R. Jacobson
(Ed.), _Information design_ (p. 83-98). Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.
Exploration of information design as, in general, an important and new
field. Information design, the term, is not new but has recently become
associated with the design of effective communication. This is the result
of information becoming a very important commodity in business, social
and personal circles. Information design, as described by Passini, is
distinguished from graphic design by its greater attention to content
and its research underpinnings in information theory and cognitive
sciences. Effective design comes from understanding the function of the
information. One common function is problem solving. Passini relates the
specific problem solving act of wayfinding to illustrate the issues in
information design. Wayfinding deals with the cognitive and behavioral
aspects of purposefully finding a physical destination. In that context
good information design places helpful information at decision points
along the route but also attempts to minimize potentially confusing
clutter which may also upset the physical art and architecture of the
building. With this final point Passini is able to suggest a pathway by
which information design can legitmize itself as a profession: architects
and graphics designers must work together to create effective signage
for wayfinding. For that combination to work well both disciplines need
additional training in the other discipline. This is not practical given
already crowded training schedules. Passini suggests the information
designer, with training from both areas alongside background education
in behavioral research, can bridge the gap between the architect and
the graphic designer, creating new and rewarding careers. -cjd
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