Resources and skills for information design practice

Abstract

Information Design (ID) is increasingly asserting itself as a fundamental subject as it plays a vital role of making complex information easy to understand and use. In the modern world, there is a need for ID, in the way that data is organized, written, and presented so that we can all understand it. When things get too complex, when an environment defies common sense, when technical requirements are allowed to prevail over human considerations, then someone must intervene – and this is where the information de-signer comes in. As such, this professional presents specificities that are important to emphasize. This article intends to reflect on some important issues for the definition of ID, such as: a) to justify its interdisciplinarity, and b) to clarify two fundamental axes for its practice (Infographics and DataViz) which have distinct features and contexts. Through a comprehensive literature review, we compile reflections from several scholars and professionals in this field of study, contributing to the affirmation of ID today, focusing on exclusive specificities that need to be highlighted. Information designers can have very different backgrounds and are often part of interdisciplinary teams that allow greater control and validation of the information presented. The eternal confrontation between form and function is once again in evidence in ID through two distinctive aspects of its practice, which demand professionals with different profiles. The differentiating characterization that exists allows a more specific knowledge of what ID is, aiming at a more informed practice and better preparation for the training of professionals.