Data Translation

Authors own image

infographicspedia.com

This project involved communicating complex information in a visually interesting, unique way. The first challenge of collecting the data; I did not want to use data from the internet as it is easy to access and would most likely be the same as another students in my class. Therefore I decided to create my outcome on primary data I had collected. I chose to record how many planes passed over my house within 3hours, this idea was created by the fact I live in the City Airports flight path and constantly hear planes passing over. However, as I began to experiment with my idea and discuss it with other peers I realised I had nothing to compare my data to, and decided to move away from my primary data. I began detailed research on the number of passengers at airports considered to be London based and developed my design from these figures. 

Authors own image

When looking at existing data graphic designs I understood it is common for the information to be highlighted and compared through the use of scale and colour; with this in mind I began to experiment with my own idea. I made several paper planes to create the basic form of my image, this helped me create a plane form within Illustrator using the path tool. I then explored colour and scale before finding an idea I was satisfied with and could develop into my final design.
I continued to explore composition, colour and typography with my basic idea to ensure my outcome was successful visually but also the understanding of the information within it.

Authors own image

Authors own image

Authors own image

I really enjoy my outcome and feel it is successful, the simplicity contributes to the effective visual as the scale of the planes stand out and draw you into discovering more. The use of flat, block colour ensures the information is easy to read whilst also making the images stand out. Overall this project has expressed how simple designs can be most successful and do not need to be over worked or chaotic. If I was to improve my design I would focus on the names of the airports as I feel the spacing between them appears inconsistent as the scale decreases.