Small Multiples

The principle of small multiples was introduced by Edward Tufte. They are a series of small similar pictures, making a point through repetition. The repetition visually shows comparisons of changes and differences among objects.

Here are a few examples.

In the graphic below, the designer used small multiples to compare portable systems. Although it's hand drawn the differences are obvious.

In the next example, small multiples were repeated but color was used to show percentage. 

For design complications this technique could solve a lot of problems.

The art of layering and separation.

After reading the chapter about layering and separation several times, the only way I can explain it is by showing a bad map and clarifying what the designer could've done to achieve a better design...of course these are all Tufte's opinions.

This is not a good map because...

All information should not be at the same visual level...it is.
The text is not harmonized or placed properly.
There is no hierarchy of visual effects.
Background and foreground compete...shouldn't.

Proper relationship was not used among information layers, i.e., all the streets have the same thickness and intensity. Shapes shouldn't be equal...they are. It de-emphasizes layer differences, because of the use of several dark colors, the blue, red and black. Positioning text was difficult because of color clashes. A better approach might've been to use intensity of a single hue, leaving visual space for additional information.

In conclusion, I think this is not a good map because...It is not layered and separated properly.

Micro/Macro Readings — Tufte really?

I am guessing Tufte does not suffer from attention deficiency. Who actually has the patience to explain about dense design? He is amazing. His whole concept is contradictory but it works: show as much data with as little decoration as possible. He talks about keeping it simple with a lot of accuracy. 

 

How can I let the data speak for itself?  

As a designer the photographer and I always struggle with the writers to get each 1/3 of the page. We often request shorter text. Tufte would probably disagree.

I understand that as a designer I should be able to show the overview of the project and then add details to clarify. I will also remind myself that clutter and confusion are failures of design, not attributes of information. 

Art Night — Friday, October 8th, 2010

How can I not be excited about a free evening of art, music and entertainment as Pasadena’s most prominent arts and cultural institutions swing open their doors. More than 10,000 people experience the excitement of ArtNight!  Unfortunately my time was enough to visit only 3 out of 16 venues. First stop — Armory Center for the Arts Featuring “Steve Roden: In Between, A 20 Year Survey,” the first survey of the artist’s work in all its different forms. Honestly I didn't get it. It wasn't captivating enough. Also at the armory, art by talented students, there were some impressive pieces. On the second floor 3D photos in the drawing and painting studio.  Second Stop — One Colorado There wasn't much to see other than an awesome solo contemporary performer. Third  Stop — Norton Simon Museum of Art Two exhibitions, “Hiroshige: Visions of Japan” (my friend bought the book and her excitement was priceless!) and “Not Wanting to Say Anything About Marcel: An Artwork by John Cage,” plus centuries of masterpieces on permanent view. Any chance that I get to see a Matisse painting I'll take it. He's my favorite. I also enjoy looking at Degas sculptures. All in all it was fun and refreshing to be surrounded by art lovers from all ages.  Thank you Pasadena.

The Caffeine Poster

My opinion about this chart is that it's simple, explanatory and engaging.

What bothers me about it is the middle section; the colors from red to green are old fashioned.

Escaping Flatland

So interesting, the first thing that came to my mind as I read this chapter was my flamboyant gym instructor Alfred. He uses excellent oldies music in his class and yet everyone including the teenagers enjoy it and respond positively. I see a similarity with what Tufte is trying to explain, by demonstrating old maps and charts. Time doesn't matter if it's done well. Presenting design or music in ways that make sense to others. 


I've learned that by following core design rules and adding density you can escape the flatland. Present dense information in a clear way. Points that stuck with me...clutter is a failure of design. I sometimes have the tendency to clutter...I will be careful. Repeated graphics displaying variations, or small multiples are good. 


I'm sure going to try and implement what I've learned in my next project.