36 Lessons on Making Better Graphics
Creating a blog post because my tweets are on rolling 60 day autodelete. This post is taken from a previous Twitter thread titled, “36 Lessons on Making Better Graphics”. It was inspired by a conversation between Matthew Kobach and Jack Butcher.
Origins of Visualize Values
Jack was burned out from his corporate role.
Jack wanted to help make intangible ideas tangible through the use of graphics
No one else was interested in this area at his agency and he figured out how to scale it
The Power of Visuals
Visuals help create a relationship between two ideas instantly
Humans process visual information better than text information
Your visuals are a filter and catalyst for working with the right audience
Lead with visuals
People understand ideas in different ways
Visuals help people agree on an idea but find their own meaning
Create something that is memorable enough to stir a feeling or behavior
Do More with Less
Jack only makes images in black and white which forces him to make decisions that help increase creativity
Design isn't adding things, but taking things away
Is there something on the canvas that can be taken away, but still be communicated?
Why Businesses Should Use Visuals More
It's an alternative to a text-heavy B2B case study
Customers better understand solutions through visuals
Visuals help add context to ideas
Mistakes People Make When Designing
They're too focused on stylistic decisions early on in their career
Make one decision to save yourself a thousand decisions.
Complexity is a sign of insecurity in your work
Motivation and Creative Block
Motivation comes in waves. Ride it when it happens.
Willpower is a state of mind
Sometimes you aren't inspired when you are doing creative work and just need to grind it out
Metaphors, Analogies, and Symbols
Great UI makes tech accessible. Great design makes ideas accessible.
Visuals metaphors work with a neutral point of reference
Use symbols that are inherently prescriptive
The Power of Twitter
Twitter is a reverse influencer. It's unlike any other social network in that it's open.
You can be an intern for anyone on the internet. Find something and reorganize it for a new perspective. They'll do your marketing for you by sharing.
Test with Twitter and turn high performing content into other content
Twitter is great because it forces you to write as simplistic as possible
Am I writing too little to take a shortcut or does this idea make sense?
Communicating Ideas
Our ability to communicate is hamstrung by our speaking ability
Don't be worried when people steal your stuff, be worried when they don't
If everyone is nodding in a room after a presentation, it means they understand your idea
Working with Clients
Your purpose is to make your client's purpose become a reality
Choose the right client to work with. One that is high integrity and strong belief system
Create demand, don't respond to it. If you have a skillset, people come to you.