Information Design

In the first week we were introduced to the general structure of the module, including exercises, projects and work on the e-portfolio. We also learned about the FLIP format: we had to break into groups (formed in the same week) and prepare a group presentation based on the lecture material.

The first task was to study different types of infographics, identify what types of data they are suitable for and give an example for each type. The individual task was to choose any free online service for creating infographics and use it to revise an unsuccessfully designed infographic poster.

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TASK

Exercise 1 - Quantify & Visualize Data

In the first exercise, we are required to quantify (count) our chosen items (buttons/Legos/coins/MNMs) and arrange the objects into a presentable layout or chart. The requirement is that the information must be presented as it is with relevant indicators written out with pens to help us to visualize the quantity and data.

Figure 1.1 idea 1

Figure 1.2 idea 2

Figure 1.3 idea 3

Figure 1.4 idea 4

I arranged the candy by color and added drawn M&M's characters to make the visualization bright and clear. I also drew a pie chart to show the percentage of each color.

Final Quantify & Visualise Data (Exercise 1)

Figure 1.5 Final Quantify & Visualise Data

Exercise 2 - L.A.T.C.H

Infographic Poster

In this exercise, we will need to:

Organize a group of information into a visual poster that combines and utilizes the LATCH principles (Minimum 4).

Use the digital photo editing/illustration software available to assemble the information into a LATCH infographic poster.

I chose Sea Turtles as the topic for my poster. These ancient marine creatures have existed for millions of years, playing a vital role in ocean ecosystems. My goal is to visually present key information about their species, habitats, life cycle, and conservation status.

Idea

The infographic categorizes sea turtles based on their species, characteristics, and conservation status. It also highlights their life cycle and the threats they face. To structure the information effectively, I applied the LATCH principles:

Location – A world map shows where sea turtles live and their key nesting sites.
Alphabet/Category – The seven species of sea turtles are grouped and described based on their size, diet, and habitat.
Time – The infographic illustrates the life cycle of a sea turtle, from egg to adulthood.
Hierarchy – A chart ranks the biggest threats to sea turtles, such as plastic pollution and climate change, while another graph compares their population sizes.

Visual Reference

After studying the information gathered, I started looking for examples of infographics . However, I later turned my attention to other formats such as maps and charts as I realized that it was possible to present information in a more varied and effective way.

Figure 1.6 Visual Reference

Research

I conducted research on the biology, life cycle, and conservation of sea turtles. I focused on the major threats they face and the impact of environmental changes on their survival.

Content Research

After gathering information, I organized it based on hierarchy:

Title: "Sea Turtles"
Subtitle: "Life, Threats, and Conservation"
Description / Definition:
Sea turtles are ancient marine reptiles that have existed for over 110 million years. They play a crucial role in maintaining the health of ocean ecosystems. However, due to human activities and climate change, many species are now endangered.
Life Cycle:
1. Egg Stage – Laid in nests on sandy beaches, incubation lasts 45–70 days.
2. Hatchlings – Once hatched, baby turtles make their way to the ocean.
3. Juvenile Stage – They spend years in open waters, growing and developing.
4. Adult Stage – After reaching maturity (15–50 years, depending on species), they migrate to nesting sites to reproduce.
Threats:
1. Plastic Pollution – Many turtles mistake plastic for food, leading to serious health issues.
2. Fishing Nets – Accidental entanglement in nets is a major cause of death.
3. Climate Change – Rising temperatures affect nesting sites and hatchling survival.
4. Poaching – Some species are hunted for their shells, meat, and eggs.
Impact & Conservation Efforts:
Only 1 in 1,000 hatchlings survive to adulthood due to natural predators and human threats.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting nesting sites, reducing plastic waste, and enforcing fishing regulations.

Sketches

After analyzing visual references, I started sketching different layout ideas for my infographic. In the first sketch, I organized the information based on key categories: the types of sea turtles, their life cycle, and major threats. I explored different ways to present data effectively, considering both visual appeal and clarity.

Figure 1.7 Sketch №1

Figure 1.8 Sketch №2

One approach was to separate the information by species, highlighting their characteristics, habitat, and conservation status. Another idea was to use a world map to show their distribution, making it easier to understand where each species is commonly found. Additionally, I experimented with different ways to illustrate threats and the life cycle to ensure a clear and engaging structure.

This process helped me determine the most logical and visually compelling way to communicate the importance of sea turtle conservation.

Progress

After finalizing my sketches, I moved on to creating the digital version of the infographic. I started by setting up the layout, ensuring that the information was well-structured and easy to follow. The next step was selecting a color palette that complemented the theme of sea turtles and the ocean while maintaining readability.

Figure 1.9 Colors

I started by creating the main illustration of a sea turtle, as it serves as the central visual element of the infographic. I focused on capturing realistic details while ensuring that the style matched the overall aesthetic of the poster.

Figure 1.9 Turtle 1

Figure 1.10 Turtle 2

After that, I illustrated small baby turtles to visually represent their life cycle and migration process. These illustrations helped add more depth to the infographic and made the information more engaging.

Figure 1.11 Turtles 1

Figure 1.12 Turtles 2

Once the illustrations were completed, I moved on to structuring the layout. I carefully organized the information into sections, ensuring a clear hierarchy and logical flow. Choosing a suitable color palette was an important step—I aimed for natural ocean tones to complement the theme while keeping the text readable.

Figure 1.13 Poster progress

Next, I worked on visualizing key data points, such as the threats to sea turtles and their population numbers, by incorporating icons, diagrams, and a world map. Adjustments were made along the way to improve clarity and balance between text and visuals.

Figure 1.14 Poster progress map

Additionally, I created an illustrated world map to show where different species of sea turtles live. This visual representation makes it easier to understand their global distribution and highlights key habitats. The map plays an important role in the infographic, reinforcing the Location principle from LATCH.

Figure 1.15 Poster progress

Throughout the process, I refined typography, spacing, and composition to enhance readability and impact. The final infographic effectively communicates important information about sea turtles and the urgency of their conservation.

Figure 1.16 Poster progress

Final L.A.T.C.H Infographic Poster

Figure 1.17 Final Poster L.A.T.C.H (JPEG)

Figure 1.18 Final Poster L.A.T.C.H (PDF)

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FEEDBACK

Week 1 / Exercise 1

Looks good , with a clear structure and visually appealing elements. Everything is well organized and easy to grasp.

Week 4 / Exercise 2

Infographics are well done and present key information effectively. Some areas could be improved but overall good design.

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REFLECTIONS

Experience:

Working on this infographic was a valuable experience in organizing complex information visually. I applied the LATCH principles to structure data effectively while ensuring the design remained engaging and informative. Creating illustrations and selecting a cohesive color palette helped reinforce the theme.

Observations:

I noticed that balancing visuals and text is crucial for clarity—too much text can overwhelm the design, while too few details might leave gaps in understanding. Additionally, the placement of elements plays a key role in guiding the viewer’s attention and maintaining a smooth flow of information.

Findings:

Through this process, I learned the importance of refining and simplifying content to improve readability. Iterating on layout and typography helped enhance the overall clarity. Feedback also highlighted areas for improvement, showing that small adjustments can make a big difference in communication effectiveness.

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Aidina Begimbaeva (0380489)