What is Information Design?
Information Design is "the practice of presenting information in a way that fosters an efficient and effective understanding of the information, rather than just attractively or for artistic expression." It's an approach to graphic design that incorporates both the written content and the visual layout to help the user understand the information more effectively.
Basically, anything that involves putting information on paper (or in a PDF file). I do reports, manuals, workbooks, worksheets, handouts, forms, publications, newsletters, e-books, printed books, infographics, white papers, and various types of print-based marketing materials. The two common types of design projects that I typically DON’T do are logos (branding) and websites. But I do know plenty of other designers who are great at those, and I’m happy to refer you if that’s what you’re looking for!
So, are you a copywriter? Or a technical writer?
No, I am not. I don’t typically write the content for the projects I work on - it’s usually provided by the client. I can, however, help improve the written content by re-organizing, editing, and proofreading as needed. So don’t worry if you’re not totally confident in your writing skills; if you can get your ideas down on paper, I can help you get them ready for your audience.
What types of clients do you work with?
Most of my clients are small to medium-size businesses and nonprofit organizations that do not have graphic designers on their teams. I also work with authors who need help setting their books up for publication, and I do subcontracting for other graphic designers who don't enjoy doing the type of work that I specialize in.
What will my project cost?
Because of the unique nature of each information design project, it’s not practical for me to have a standard “rate sheet.” Instead, I’m happy to provide a free estimate based on the size and complexity of your particular content. Please contact me if you have a project in mind and would like an estimate.
When my project is finished, will I get a Word file that I can edit myself if I have changes later?
I get this question a lot, and the answer is: no. Why? Because there isn’t a Word file! Like most graphic designers, I work in Adobe Creative Suite programs, not in Word. Yes, I realize this means you’ll have to come back to me if you need updates in the future (and no, I’m not just looking for a reason to charge you more, I promise). I use Adobe programs because they’re the best tools for the job, and allow me to create a more professional-looking final product for you.
Think of it this way: if you hired a contractor to build you a house, would you require them to use nothing but a hammer and a screwdriver, because those are the tools you have and know how to use? Probably not. It would take a lot longer, and they wouldn’t be able to build a very good house with those limitations, would they? The same goes for design work. One of the reasons I can make better stuff is because I have better tools, and the knowledge of how to use them.
What if I need to get my project printed?
When your project is finalized, I’ll provide you with a print-ready PDF file that you can print out on your own printer or send to a professional printing service. If you’d like more assistance with the printing process, I’m happy to coordinate for you by recommending vendors, getting estimates, uploading files, reviewing proofs, etc.
Have a question that wasn't covered here? Feel free to contact me for an answer!