Topher's Interactive Design Blog

A clear example of just how important instructional design is - it can save your life. If this wasn't clear, or if it was ineligible, you would die.



This simple, language-free instruction list is designed to overcome the main logistical obstacles that prevent the majority of well-designed homeless shelters from ever reaching any significant portion of the homeless population.



These graphic instructions are on the side of a wheeled, hydraulically-powered construction lift platform, the kind used to hoist a person to a high location to perform repairs. This was a rental unit. The visual instructions ease the process of learning how to operate the device.



A boat created using the technique of origami, the oriental art of paper folding. This boat, which has its instructions for use reproduced on its sails, is a model that may be used to make real paper boats.



And just a little bit of humour... lets pray no one has to use these instructions

What exactly makes a great example of Information Design? Well obviously, the ability to convey the information to the viewer would be a start, but lets focus on the design part. What makes a great example of Interactive Design? Lets look at how designers have presented information.

Instructional Design is the systematic development of instructional specifications using learning and instructional theory to ensure the quality of instruction. It is the entire process of analysis of learning needs and goals and the development of a delivery system to meet those needs. It includes development of instructional materials and activities; and tryout and evaluation of all instruction and learner activities.

Information design is concerned with transforming data into information, making the complex easier to understand and to use. It is a rapidly growing discipline that draws on typography, graphic design, applied linguistics, applied psychology, applied ergonomics, computing, and other fields. It emerged as a response to people's need to understand and use such things as forms, legal documents, computer interfaces and technical information.

Information designers consider the selection, structuring and presentation of the information provider's message in relation to the purposes, skills, experience, preferences and circumstances of the intended users. To do this they need specialist knowledge and skills in graphic communication and typography, the psychology of reading and learning, human-computer interaction, usability research and clear writing, plus an understanding of the potential and limitations of different media.

Again, watch if you can't be bothered to read: