INFORMATION DESIGN - EXERCISES 1 & 2

INFORMATION DESIGN - EXERCISES 1 & 2

9/2/2026 - 6/3/2026  (Week 1 - Week 4)
Nur Adila binti Nazary (0377352)
Information Design / Bachelor in Design (Honours) in Creative Media / Taylor's University
Exercises 1 & 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1) Lectures
2) Instructions
3) Class Activity
4) Flip Class
5) Process
6) Feedback
7) Final Outcome
8) Reflection

LECTURES
Week 1
Module Introduction

Introduction Overview:
The lecturer presented the module slides and explained about the subject. There was a brief given about all assignments and projects that we will be working on throughout the module. Each assignment was explained briefly so we can understand the requirements and expectations.

Group Assignments:
The lecturer also provided us a list of groups in the class that was divided into colours. These groups will be used for group assignments later in the semester.

GROUP LIST LINK: Info Design FED 2026 student info - Google Sheets

Module Materials:
All important information about assignments and projects is included in the lecture slides. The slides and learning materials are all uploaded through Microsoft Teams.

Week 2
L.A.T.C.H
L.A.T.C.H Principals
L.A.T.C.H principle was made by Richard Saul Wurman. It is an information architecture framework used to organise data and content based on 5 key methods which are:
1) Location
Location works by organising information based on geographical or spatial arrangement.

Figure 1. Floor Plan (Location)

Examples like maps, space layouts, floor plans and mall directory.

2) Alphabet
Organising information by name, title or letter.

Figure 2. Alphabet organisation (Alphabet)

Examples like dictonaries, telephone directories and indexes.

3) Time
Organises information by date or time. 

Figure 3. Iphone evolution (Time)

Examples like timeline, history events and schedules.

4) Category
Groups information based on shared characteristics, traits or topics.

Figure 4. Car sales (Category)

Examples like product categories and topics in a library.

5) Hierarchy
Organising and sorting information based on its importance level. (E.G. Size, colour and position)

Figure 5. Job position (Hierarchy)

WHAT I'VE LEARNED IN WEEK 1-2
From these two weeks of lectures, I learned about the module structure, assignments and expectation for the semester. The lecturer also organised us into colour coded groups for future group assignments and explained that all learning materials will be uploaded on Microsoft Teams.

In Week 2, I learned about the L.A.T.C.H principle by Richard Saul Wurman, which is a method used to organise information clearly. The five methods are Location, Alphabet, Time, Category and Hierarchy and they help arrange information so it is easier for people to understand and navigate.

INSTRUCTION



CLASS ACTIVITY
Week 1 class activity:
Infographic Presentation (Types of Infographic)
To start the first week of class, we started with a group activity. We were placed into groups by the lecturer and my group was Group D (Team Yellow). The task was to prepare a brief presentation about infographics.

Topic Selection:
We decided to focus on the basic and most commonly used types of infographic. This was made because the lecturer wanted a simple and brief introduction to the topic.

The infographic types we covered were:
- Statistical infographic
- Geographic infographic
- Hierarchical infographic
- Process infographic
- Timeline infographic

Figure 6. Reference on Types of Infographics

Research:
Each of us researched one type of infographic. To follow consistency throughout the slides, we followed three main categories which are:
1) What is it / Meaning
2) Used for / Best for
3) Example pictures / Example images


Figure 7. Researching progress #1

Figure 8. Researching progress #2

Everyone conducted their own research while following these three categories as a guide.

Presentation Preparation:
After gathering all of the information needed, we combine our research and organized it in a short presentation using Canva. The slides were arranged nicely and clearly so that all information could be easily understood.

CANVA LINK: Types of Infographics Slides

Figure 9. Arranging Information
 
Infographic Presentation (Bad and Good Infographics)
After that, we had another group presentation focusing on the bad and the good infographic examples. The lecturer asked us to identify clear reasons why an infographic is considered good or bad.

Since our group has 6 members, we decided to analyse 3 bad infographics and 3 good infographic. Each member did their own research and shared their findings in our WhatsApp group before compiling all of the information together.

Research:
Each of us searched for at least 3 reasons explaining why an infographic was either good or bad. We focused on the key points such as layout, colour usage, visual hierarchy and effectiveness of information delivery. We only put the main points in the slides, while the full explanation were presented verbally by each of us.

Figure 10. Researching progress #1

Figure 11. Researching progress #2

Presentation Preparation:
After gathering all the research, we combined our ideas and organised them into a simple and a clear presentation. We made sure that each slide was not overload with text and that the key points were easy to understand. During the presentation, each member explained their assigned infographic clearly by supporting the points with visuals examples.

CANVA LINK: Bad and Good Infographic Slides

Figure 12. Arranging Information

FLIP CLASS
FLIP 1
Redesigning Infographic
For our first flip class task, we needed to redesign a poorly constructed infographic poster using Canva.

RESEARCH
I searched through Google to understand what makes an infographic ineffective. From my research, I found several common problems such as:
1) Information overload 
2) Lack of information 
3) Poor colour choices
4) Poor visual element
5) Lack of visual hierarchy

and many more.

Based on this research, I chose an infographic poster that had several of these issues.

Figure 13. Bad infographic 

I chose the same example from my group presentation. By observing this poster, I was able to see reasons why it is considered a bad infographic.

Why is it bad?
1) No clear flow / Weak data
The poster is supposed to be a process infographic. A process infographic should clearly show instructions in step by step format that breaks down the procedure. But, this poster does not properly show the steps or instruction on what to do next which makes the whole poster confusing.

2) Bad colour choice
The neon green in the background draws too much attention compared to the information and steps. The typography colour also create some confusion, the word "Lawn Fertilizer" is in dark purple while "Make Your Own' is bright yellow, which causes people to focus on the wrong part of the title. Overall, the colours chosen are too saturated and bright that makes it visually uncomfortable.

3) Bad visual element
The images used are pixelated with bad lighting, inconsistent angles and messy backgrounds. This makes the poster look unprofessional and lowers the visual quality.

IDEATION
Reediting

After analyzing the poster, I edited and arranged some graphics to make a better infographic. The lecturer suggested to make a clean yet engaging infographic poster.

How I improved it.
1) Changing the colours
Right now as you can see in the old infographic poster, they used bright and saturated colours which distract the people from the important information. In my redesign, I used more muted colours for the background and stronger contrast colours for the step information. This would help people to focus more toward the process, which is the main focus.

2) Adding clearer information
The original poster lacked proper instructions. Since a process infographic must show clear steps, I researched on how to make a homemade lawn fertilizer and included proper instructions to it. I also arranged the steps carefully and added a connecting line to show the sequence and direction.

3) Changing the visuals
Rather than adding low quality pictures, I added illustrations instead to make the poster more engaging and visually consistent. The illustrations follow the same style and colour scheme which helps keeps the design clean and not messy.

DEVELOPMENT

I went through several attempts while reediting the design. 
Attempt #1: 

Figure 14. Layout before feedback #1

Comments from the lecturer:
Colours and layout are good. The number list needs to be smaller. Illustration is high in contrast which take a lot of attention from the actual process.

After feedbacks:
Attempt #2
Figure 15. Layout after feedback #2

Comments from the lecturer:
Add margins and space so that there's a breathing space when we look at the poster (at the edge of the poster). Make sure that everything is in balance and then the weight of it is the same (by eye) with each other.

After feedbacks:
Attempt #3
Figure 16. Layout after feedback #3

After the feedbacks given by the lecturer, the final design became more balanced and visually clearer. The side graphics were toned down with muted colours so they no longer compete with the step information. Everything looks much more balanced. Most importantly, the infographic is now easier to understand, visually organised and communicate the process more effectively.

FLIP 2
L.A.T.C.H Presentation
For our second flip class task, we needed to create a presentation about the L.A.T.C.H principles by Richard Saul Wurman and explain what they are. Each person on our group must at least present one principle.

L.A.T.C.H Principles:
Based on our lecture on Week 2, we have some knowledge about what L.A.T.C.H principles are and what they are used for. Here is a quick recap.

1) Location
Organising information by where things are. (E.G. Maps, floor plans and mall directories)

Figure 17. (LOCATION) World Map

2) Alphabet
Organising information by A-Z order (E.G. Dictionaries, contact lists and indexes)

Figure 18. (ALPHABET) Contact List

3) Time
Organising information by when things happen (E.G. Timelines, history events, schedules)

Figure 19. (TIMELINE) History Event

4) Category
Organising information by type or group 
(E.G. Product categories, library sections and menu sections)

Figure 20. (CATEGORY) Library Sections

5) Hierarchy
Organising information by importance or level 
(E.G. Job positions, headings and size differences)

Figure 21. (HIERARCHY) Job Positions

Research:
Our group planned for each on of us to do one principle with 3 main categories / questions to keep the consistency throughout the slides. The 3 categories / questions are:
1) What is it / Meaning
2) Best for / Example on what its used for
3) Image example

Figure 22. Researching progress #1

Figure 23. Arranging Information

Presentation Preparation:

After getting the information we needed, we compile it into a Canva slide and arranged it according to the hierarchy principle.

CANVA LINK: LATCH Slides

PROCESS
Exercise 1 Overview:
Focus: Quantify & Visualize Data

QUANTIFY OBJECTS

The task is to quantify and arrange our chosen object / 
item into a presentable table, layout or chart. The object must have at least 3 category differences.

RESEARCH AND INSPIRATION:
What is Quantifiable?
It means when something that can be measured in quantity.

Based on the meaning of quantifiable, I searched around my room for suitable objects that could be arranged into data. I have found a few options which are:

1) Multi shaped buttons


Figure 24. Multi shaped buttons

At first, I was interested to use the buttons because it was colourful and unique, which could make the layout visually interesting.

However, the main reason why I didn't choose it because, the buttons that I have are too random and lack consistency. Each one was different in shape and design, making it difficult to arrange them into clear groups. This would make a messy and unclear data layout.

2) Consistent circular beads (CHOSEN)

Figure 25. Consistent circular beads

The consistent circular beads were more suitable for this type of exercises. Although it might be simple in form, they have a consistent shape and structure while still having their 3 differences which are size, colour and finish. This makes them easier to classify and arrange into a clear and effective data layout.

3) Multi shaped beads

Figure 26. Multi shaped beads

Similar to the multi shape buttons, every single beads has its own unique style and form. Though it is visually interesting, it would create a disorganised layout and reduce clarity, which is against the main goal of clear information communication.

In the end, I chose consistent circular beads because they meet the requirements of a good data layout and would have a clearer organisation and exploration of different layouts systems.

IDEATION
After choosing the quantifiable object, I went to do some digging on the different data layout styles.

One layout that stood out to me was the circular / radial layout because it has more flexibility in arranging data an provides greater creative control on the composition. Compared to a standard table format, the radial layout makes the information more engaging and visually appealing. It also allows multiple categories to be organised clearly in one structured system.

INSPIRATIONS:

Figure 27. Radial layout inspiration #1

Figure 28. Radial layout inspiration #2

Figure 29. Radial layout inspiration #3

MY SKETCH:

Figure 30. Diagram sketch

The sketch shows the initial plan for arranging the three data categories which are finish, size and colour. A radial layout was chosen to organise these categories in a structured and visual way. Labels are placed around the layout to show which section represents each category. An additional box is included to explain the colour abbreviations used in the diagram. 

PROCESS:
After finishing the diagram sketch, I recreated the layout on paper using a protractor, compass and ruler as well to get the right shape, divisions and sections. The radial shape was then cut out. 

Figure 31. Process #1

Next, I organised the beads according to their categories. (E.g. Matte, Small, White.) Then counted each of them and recorded the data into a notebook.

Figure 32. Process #2

Then, I took an A3 sized paper and drew a grid line to have a consistent lettering size and a guide to arrange the data and tables.

Figure 33. Process #3

After the grid was drawn, I added the necessary information such as the title, box label, data table, total amount, the diagram and guides to improve clarity.

Figure 34. Process #4

After confirming the structure and composition, I outline the lettering and data table and began placing the beads to their categories. (E.g. Matte, Small, White.)

Figure 35. Process #5

This shows the final bead arrangement with labels and classification guide.

WHAT TECHNIQUES I'VE USED:
For this exercise, I used categorisation and classification by sorting the bead based on their size, colour and finish. I also applied a radial layout technique to organise the data clearly and make the visual more engaging. In addition, basic drawing tools such as a compass, protractor and ruler were used to create accurate divisions and maintain a clean layout.

Exercise 2 Overview:
Focus: L.A.T.C.H

L.A.T.C.H (Location / Alphabet / Time / Category / Hierarchy)
For this task, we were required to design a visual information poster that organises data using at least 4 of the L.A.T.C.H principles (Location, Alphabet, Time, Category, Hierarchy).

We were allowed to choose our own topic or select from the datasets provided by the lecturer which are:

1) Pokedex: https://pokemondb.net/pokedex/
2) Final Fantasy XIV Bestiary: https://ffxiv.gamerescape.com/wiki/Category:Bestiary
3) Dinasaurs: https://www.mainstreetsmiles.com/fun-stuff/teeth-25-dinosaurs-prehistoric-creatures

RESEARCH AND INSPIRATION:
All three datasets were initially reviewed to see which would provide sufficient structure, flexibly and clarity for applying the L.A.T.C.H principles effectively.

1) Pokedex

Figure 36. Pokedex Gen 1 reference #1

Figure 37. Pokedex Gen 2 reference #2

Figure 38. Pokedex Gen 3 reference #3

I was somewhat familiar with the Pokedex franchise, especially Generation 1, though not so much with the later generations. The website provides a large amount of well arrange and structured data, including generations, evolution levels, types, abilities and habitats.

Because the information is clearly categorised, it brings some flexibility in rearranging and restructuring the data using multiple L.A.T.CH principles. The variety of the dataset make it suitable for creating a visually engaging poster design.

2) Final Fantasy XIV Bestiary

Figure 39. Final Fantasy XIV Bestiary reference #1

Figure 40. Final Fantasy XIV Bestiary reference #2

Figure 41. Final Fantasy XIV Bestiary reference #3

I am less familiar with the Final Fantasy franchise. Compared to the other options, the dataset seems to be more complex and detailed.

While the extra information could support with the categorisation, it might also be overwhelming when deciding which L.A.T.CH principle to prioritize. The content would need more time to analyze and simplify before designing the poster.

3) Dinosaurs

Figure 42. Dinosaurs reference #1

Figure 43. Dinosaurs reference #2

Figure 44. Dinosaurs reference #3

Dinosaurs are a well known and accessible topic. The dataset includes enough information to organise using the L.A.T.C.H principle such as Time, Category or Location.

However, compared to the other two options, the data feels more predictable. Al though it is clear and easy to understand, it brings fewer opportunities for a more creative information structuring.

FINAL DECISION
After evaluating the 3 datasets, I chose the Pokedex. It provide a strong balance between structured data and creative flexibility, making it easy to explore in layout design while working with familiar and recognisable content.

IDEATION
CHOSING 4 PRINCIPLES:
From the 5 L.A.T.C.H principles, I selected 4 that are most suitable and consistent with the Pokedex dataset which are Location, Alphabet, Category and Hierarchy.

1) Location 
- Can be organised by region (such as Kanto or Sinnoh) or by elemental based habitats and islands. This principle helps group information by place, making it clearer and easier to understand visually.

2) Alphabet
- Can be arranged from A-Z based on Pokémon names (E.G. Abra, Bulbasaur, Charizard). This helps to create a familiar and easy system for people to follow when reading the information.

3) Category
- Can be grouped according to elemental types (such as Electric, Fire and Water). This makes the information more organized and helps people to compare them more easily.

4) Hierarchy
- Can be structured through evolution stages, beginning from the base form (baby stage) to the final evolved form. This creates a natural visual flow that guide the viewer's eye.

The Time principle was not selected because the Pokémon timeline goes throu
gh multiple generations and regions making it lengthy and complex to explain it all. Since a data post

er should be clear, clean and efficient to read, including the Time principle might overcrowd the layout.

Final selected principles:
Location: Arranged by elemental island / habitats
Alphabet: Arranged by names (A-Z)
Category: Arranged by elemental type
Hierarchy: Arranged by evolution stages

COMPOSITION/LAYOUTS:
Based on the references that the lecturer gave, Pokedex designs often use softer, lighter colour palettes with a cute style that matches the character designs.

To stay consistent with this style, I explored layouts that use pastel colours and balanced spacing. This helps keep the poster visually approachable while still organised and easy to read.

INSPIRATIONS:

Figure 45. Pokedex poster inspiration #1

Figure 46. Pokedex poster inspiration #2

Figure 47. Pokedex poster inspiration #3

LOCATION:
For Location principle, I wanted to visually represent habitats through floating elemental islands. Each island would be designed according to the specific elements such as water, fire or grass.

The Pokémon would be placed within their corresponding environment. This helps viewers quickly understand their habitat and type. It also makes the poster more engaging while keeping the information clearly organised.

INSPIRATIONS:
Figure 48. Floating island inspiration #1

Figure 49. Floating island inspiration #2

Figure 50. Floating island inspiration #3

ALPHABET & HIERARCHY:
From the full dataset, I chose on the original starter Pokémon. These characters are well known and easily recognised, which makes the poster more engaging and relatable.


Figure 51. Original Pokémon starters

As for Hierarchy, it is shown through their evolution stages, starting from the base form and moving to the next stages and final evolution. This creates a clear visual flow and helps viewers understand how the characters develop.

Figure 52. Pokémon starters full evolution

CATEGORY:
The Category principle is applied through elemental types:
- Grass Type (Bulbasaur)
- Fire Type (Charmander)
- Water Type (Squirtle)

This follows the Pokedex dataset and strengthens the connection between habitat (Location) and elemental type (Category), making the information system clear and consistent. 

Figure 53. Pokémon type symbols

RECAP:
Based on all of the research and ideas development, I complied my concepts into new sketches and layout explorations. These sketches helps me plan how to organise each elements and apply the 4 L.A.T.C.H principles clearly within the poster.

MY PROGRESS SKETCHES:

Figure 54. Island sketches

Figure 55. Hierarchy / evolution arrangement

Figure 56. Base arrangement

After finalising the base arrangement, I moved into Adobe Illustrator to refined and vectorize the design. At this stage, I also added the Pokémon characters type symbols and refined the layout digitally.

POSTER AFTER DIGITIZATION AND EDITING:

Figure 57. #1 Layout poster

Comments from the lecturer:
Move the arrows in the hierarchy circle into the middle of the lines and make it bigger so the viewers can see the change. The lines and type shouldn't be in solid black, change it into a different colour. To show the evolution change each sector with a different colour (gradient colour from light to dark). All Kanto Pokémon should change to All Kanto Pokémons. Add an information box on the side to give more of a guide for the viewers.

POSTER AFTER FEEDBACKS:

Figure 58. #2 Layout poster after feedback

Layout #2 was chosen as the final design because it had the best balance between the creativity and the clear information structure. The floating elemental islands strengthen the Location principle while adding more engaging visuals and the circular layouts clearly Category and Hierarchy through grouped types and evolution stages. The gradients and arrows guide the viewer smoothly from base to final form, making the progression easy to follow. Compared to the earlier version, this layout feel more organised and refined, making both the graphic and text to be clear without overcrowding the composition.

WHAT TECHNIQUES 
I'VE USED:
For this exercise, I used information organisation techniques based on the L.A.T.C.H principles which are Location, Alphabet, Category and Hierarchy to structure the dataset clearly. I also applied layout planning and visual hierarchy to guide the viewer's reading flow across the poster. Other than that, I used digital illustration and vector design techniques in Adobe Illustrator to refine the layout, arrange the elements and create a clean and consistent final poster.

FEEDBACK
All designs were sent to the lecturer for some feedback and some improvements.

Exercise 1: Quantify & Visualize Data (Beads Arrangement)
The lecturer suggested to have a consistent lettering size, spacing and margins. The lecturer also asked to remove the cloud like data table to make it more professional. Clean work is important.

Figure 59. Before feedback (Beads Arrangement)

Figure 60. After feedback (Beads Arrangement)

WHAT I IMPROVED
Through this exercise, I improved my ability to organise information a clearly and structure data in a more readable layout. After receiving feedback, I adjusted the lettering size, spacing and margins to make the layout more consistent. I also removed the cloud shaped data table and replaced it with a cleaner structure so the overall design looks more professional and easier to understand.

WHAT COULD BE DONE BETTER
I could improve further by paying more attention to the overall alignment and spacing to make the layout more balanced. I would also spend more time refining the composition so the data presentation look more polished and visually organised.

Exercise 2: L.A.T.C.H Poster
The lecturer suggest improving the clarity of the hierarchy circle by moving the arrows to the center of the divided line and enlarging them so the evolution changes are more visible. I was also advised to avoid using solid black for the lines and text and instead use softer colours for better visual harmony. To better represent evolution progression, gradient from light to dark was applied to each sector. Additionally, I corrected "All Kanto Pokémon" to "All Kanto Pokémons" and added an information box on the size to guide the viewers more clearly.

Figure 61. Before feedback (L.A.T.C.H poster)

Figure 62. After feedback (L.A.T.C.H poster)

WHAT I IMPROVED

Through this exercise, I improved the clarity and readability of the poster layout. After receiving feedback, I adjusted the arrows in the hierarchy circle by placing them in the center and making them larger so the evolution stages are easier to see. I also changed the solid black lines and text to softer colour to create better visual harmony. In addition, I applied gradient colours to the sectors to show the evolution progression more clearly and added an information box to guide the viewers.

WHAT COULD BE DONE BETTER
The poster could be improved further by refining the spacing, alignment and overall composition to make the layout more balanced. I would also explore more visual variations in the layout and island designs to make the poster more engaging while still keeping the information clear and organised.

FINAL OUTCOME
Exercise 1: Quantify Data

Figure 63. Final Quantify Data

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

Figure 64. Final L.A.T.C.H

REFLECTION
Experience
There two exercises were an overall good learning experience for me, even if they took quite some time to complete because both needed some research and careful planning. The exercise that took longer was the L.A.T.C.H poster, since I had to analyse the dataset and figure out how to organise the information clearly using the different principles. However, I enjoyed working on the L.A.T.C.H poster the most because it was a topic I was somewhat familiar with and it gave me more creative freedom in designing the layout and visuals.

Observations
Throughout the exercises, I realised that arranging information clearly is more challenging than it initially seems. Finding a good composition and deciding how to structure the data required a lot of experimentation. I also noticed that small design decisions such as spacing, alignment and colour choices can greatly affect how easy it is for viewers to understand the information.

Findings
From these exercises, I learned that information design is not only about making something visually appealing, but also about presenting data in a clear and organised way. Proper planning, research and structure are important in helping viewers understand the information quickly. These exercises also helped me improve my understanding of how layout and visual hierarchy work together to communicate data effectively.



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