Funny to think I had almost bought
this book before even taking this class, but after this initial read-through I
can say I’m glad I have the chance to study it in class. After a year’s worth
of general graphic design principles and guidelines, Ellen Lupton’s Graphic Design Thinking: Beyond
Brainstorming provides an enlightening introduction to how the design
process can be used in real world projects.
The definitions of each step were short and to the point, but contained
plentiful tidbits of information that kept me yearning to learn more. Beyond
the definitions though, the book provides great walkthroughs and insightful
advice for each step. Advice that I’m sure will be incredibly helpful in advancing
my skills as a designer.
Going further, Lupton provides
fantastic case studies that really helped me put into context just how these
steps are being implemented in real world designs.
The one that sparked my interest the most was the case study
that examined the use of mind mapping. I’ve personally never used this form of
associative thinking, but seeing the examples of the Texturactiv – A Tactile Exploratorium logos has convinced me to
implement this “cloud of ideas” research into future projects.
Overall this first read-through of
the book has given me more knowledge than I would have expected. The writing is
sharp and refreshing, with visuals that connect me back consistently to what is
being presented. I believe wholeheartedly this will be a book that I will hold
on to for years to come and will look back to for solutions when I run into
snags in any projects I might have.
I too found the mind mapping the most intriguing strategy to solve a problem. I think getting the ideas out of your head and down on paper is a great way to visually see and organize your ideas before jumping into a project. This is definitely an approach that I plan on using in later works. In addition I like how you mention this writing is "sharp and refreshing." I thoroughly agree that the way this book is presented with the visuals and the real life scenarios is what will make it so useful in the future.
ReplyDeleteHello! I am glad to hear that I am not the only one who has never used the mind mapping technique. I am excited to try and I think I will also use this book in the future, as you mentioned you would too. I think if you provided some specific examples from the book to back you up it would prove your point even more. Which ones did you find the most helpful? I also love the visuals in this book. Really a design book made for designers!
ReplyDeleteHello! I almost bought the book too before this class, which is funny. One of my friends who is studying graphic design at different college told me about this book and that it was an interesting buy. Ellen Lupton does a great job at describing everything to a point and including helpful illustrations. I have done mind mapping once before and it is very helpful to do. It's something that I should do on a regular basis with my designs, however, always forget to do.
ReplyDelete