Clarifying Complexity
Complex Concepts
Usually include complex graphics which convey meaning through detail. It is always easier to simplify the information and only works if accepted.
Cognitive Dissonance - State of mental conflict.
Cognitive Complexity
Two contributors
1. Conherency - consisent logic making explanations meaningful. Steps of process or understanding cause and effect.
2. Context - framework or structure of something and new information is assimilated. influences how something is interpreted. anything out of context will not make sense. It helps guide the viewers attention.
Applying the Principles
Complexity can interfere w/ decoding and visual interpretation. Several visual approaches:
1. Segment into smaller units - decreases infromation processed at one time.
2. Smaller chunks of information - allows schemas build up as a whole.
3. Simple to complex components.
4. Broken into chronological sequence.
5. Division of frames and can be animated.
6 Clarify complexity - expose parts or aspects that are hidden or unclear. showing movemnet can be a useful device.
7. Make the structure of information seen clearly. Helps the viewer understanding the message.
Segments and Sequences
Pace or sequence (Beginning, middle, & end). Digestible pieces - Avoid cognitive overload. Designers have a dominant & subbordinate elements. We manage our world internally by use of segments. Must be retained in the working memory until the next portion of graphics. This can be achieved in several ways:
1. Big picture view.
2. Introducing the overriding concepts at the start.
3. Visual continuityof the information.
4. Building on previous concepts.
5. Directing the viewers eyes.
6. Sequencing.
7. Holistic View.
This chapter was very interesting and brought up many important ways to convey complex images and information through various techniques. It helps assure that complexity can be used when it all flows correctly to the audience. Clarifying what one thing means to another and creating an eye chart or flow of information.
