Information Design - Exercise 1 / Quantifiable Information

03.02.2025 -10.02.2025  / Week 1 - Week 2

Siang Huey Yee / 0369549

Information Design / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media           

Exercise 1 - Quantifiable Information 

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OUTLINE

• LECTURE
• INSTRUCTIONS
• EXERCISE 1 - QUANTIFIABLE INFORMATION
• FEEDBACK
• REFLECTION

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LECTURE

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Week 1 Lecture: Module Briefing & Type of Infographics 

Class Summary (Week 1 - 3/2/2025)

• Definition & Importance of Infographics

  • Infographics visually communicate ideas in a simple, engaging, and effective way.
  • They increase audience engagement and make complex information easier to understand.

• 8 Types of Infographics

  1. List Infographics – Uses written lists combined with visuals for better readability.
  2. Statistical Infographics – Includes charts and graphs to visually present data.
  3. How-To Infographics – Provides step-by-step instructions in a visual format.
  4. Timeline Infographics – Displays chronological information with icons and illustrations.
  5. Comparison Infographics – Compares different options side by side for better decision-making.
  6. Map/Location Infographics – Presents demographic or location-based data.
  7. Flowchart Infographics – Represents a sequence of steps or decisions graphically.
  8. Process Description Infographics – Breaks down complex processes into simplified steps.

Figure 1.1 Type of Infographics

Figure 1.2 List Infographics 

Figure 1.3 Statistical Infographics

Figure 1.4 Timeline Infographics 

Figure 1.5 Comparison Infographics

Figure 1.6 Map/Location Infographics

Figure 1.7 Flowchart Infographics

Figure 1.8 Process Description Infographics

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INSTRUCTIONS

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Module Information Booklet

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EXERCISE 1 - QUANTIFIABLE INFORMATION

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Create a visual representation of numerical data by categorizing objects based on quantifiable factors and arranging them into an informative layout.

Requirements:

1. Choose a set of objects (e.g., Lego pieces, buttons, marbles, rubber bands, coins, M&Ms).
2. Categorize the objects based on 2 to 5 factors such as:
   • Colour 
   • Shape 
   • Pattern 
   • Other quantifiable characteristics
3. Arrange the objects in a structured layout to clearly present the data.
4. Label and annotate the display with relevant indicators using pens or markers to help visualize the quantities.

• Photo 1: Random objects before sorting.
• Photo 2: Objects sorted into categories (2-5 categories).
• Photo 3: Final presentation with written information on a piece of paper, showing the categorized data.
• E-Portfolio Report: Document the process with images and descriptions.

For this exercise, I chose to use small wooden clips of different colours and quantities, allowing me to categorize them effectively. I followed a five-step sequence: Data, Sorted, Arranged, Presented Visually, and Explained with a Story.

I began by sorting the clips by colour, then arranged them in descending order based on their quantity (most to least). To clearly present the information, I wrote it on A3 paper using different coloured pens that matched the colours of the wooden clips. This approach helped differentiate and identify each category clearly, making the information straightforward and easy to understand.

Figure 1.1 Data (Random objects before sorting) 

Figure 1.2 Sorted (by colour)

Figure 1.3 Arranged (by colours)

Figure 1.4 Presented Visually (Objects sorted into categories - Colour & Quantity)

My lecturer, Mr. Fauzi, suggested that I clip the small wooden clips together to create a 3D dragon head. However, after attempting this idea, I had to decline it because the clips were too small and could not be securely attached to one another. As a result, I decided to create a 2D representation of a full dragon instead.

In Figure 2.1, I presented my progress to Mr. Fauzi for feedback. He recommended adding information to my A3 paper by writing details directly on it. He also asked about the relevance of the colours and why I chose to create a dragon. This led me to explore how the colours represent different characteristics of dragon creatures:

• Dark Blue - Knowledge, Mystery, Wisdom
• Blue - Protection, Guidance
• Red - Strength, Passion, Good Fortune
• Orange - Courage, Adaptability
• Pink - Rare, Mystical energy
• Green - Nature, Healing, Life
• Purple - Act as the Dragon's eye

After incorporating the information, I was also advised to outline the dragon to enhance its visual clarity and emphasis. Figure 2.2 showcases the final informative poster for this exercise.

Figure 2.1 Explained with a Story (First Version without information)

Figure 2.2 Explained with a Story (Final poster)

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FEEDBACK

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Week 1:

Mr. Fauzi suggested that I add my information to the poster after presenting my progress in class with only the visualization. He also recommended adding an outline to the final poster to enhance and emphasize the shape of the dragon.

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REFLECTION

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For Exercise 1 – Quantifiable Information, I explored how numerical data can be visually represented by categorizing small wooden clips based on their colours and quantities. Through a structured five-step process—Data, Sorted, Arranged, Presented Visually, and Explained with a Story, I effectively organized the information. Initially, I attempted a 3D dragon head as suggested by Mr. Fauzi, but due to the small size of the clips, I opted for a 2D full dragon representation instead. Incorporating annotations and colour symbolism, I refined my final presentation by outlining the dragon for better clarity. This exercise enhanced my data visualization skills and reinforced the importance of clear categorization and visual storytelling.