Visual communication is everywhere. We may not even realize that we are doing it. Visual communication can be understood without visiting art galleries or reading books about it. It is enough to look around and observe the things that are already there. Visual communication is everywhere. Mobiles, packaging, books, websites, etc. are all examples we see every day. Visual communication can be seen in the clock we use to tell time. Visual communication is not always possible by simply observing the world around us. If you look at a clock, many visual messages can be sent.
Visual Communication vs. ArtThe word ‘Visual Communication’ is an extremely broad expression. While it’s closely related to visual or fine arts, the term ‘art’ is not used. It has a specific purpose and is intended to reach a targeted audience or’specific users’.
The difference between the two is that ‘art’ is expressive and more self-centered, while ‘design is concerned more with targeted communication’. The intention of the project is to explore users’ experiences.
Target, Purpose and Function are the three main terms that distinguish visual communication from ‘art.’
Visual communication and Graphic Design Until relatively recently, visual communications were referred as ‘Graphic Design.’ William Addison Dwiggins an American designer coined this term to elevate visual art. Visual communication became popular after the introduction of new media in addition to the print medium. It helped people understand the complexity of a field and put its importance rightly on businesses. In communication, it is generally believed that creativity is the most important factor. Designers are also viewed as having a strong artistic bent. In reality, creativity is just a small part of effective communication.
Visual communication designers need to be creative and methodical.
A visual identity, based on data collected about the target audience, its nature and competitors, is designed. This visual identity plays an important strategic and fundamental role.
Role in attracting customers and increasing profits. It enhances the aesthetics of a brand. This elevates its status on the targeted market. Analytical is the approach. Information Designs place a high priority on ‘Functionality and Usability’ when it comes to delivering the message. It is important to keep the user’s experience positive when interacting with information. Clearness & Accuracy are the key criteria that are used to reduce frustration and improve understanding. Pre-defined target audiences or markets are used. This involves market research that leads to the creation of a strong design concept to manipulate emotions and change perceptions / behaviors, grab attention from passers-by, and sell a ‘Big Idea.’ Thus here the approach is conceptual.Expression of ideas and its underlying emotions is the main goal while working in Illustration discipline. Drawing and painting are used to communicate using digital or traditional media. Designers and Illustrators may work with publishers of magazines or books, or they can publish their work on their own. Illustrations are used in children’s books, educational materials and for political and social awareness. Their work could be revolutionary in order to improve the social status of a group or cause, using sarcasm. It takes a more creative approach. The motion designer uses a combination moving images, texts and special effects in order to tell a tale and influence the audience’s emotions. Videos, sound and animations in televisions and movies, as well as opening credits, are all examples of powerful visuals that can make a lasting impression on viewers. Designers, art directors and photographers get input from authors, illustrators and photographers to help create visual concepts. In order to achieve a pleasing reading experience, it is important that the pictures and typesetting are well-designed. To be a good designer, you must have a sense of ‘disciplined free will’. Communication, constraints and limitations, along with the ‘craft,’ are all necessary to achieve freedom. Designing is an art of creative problem solving. It’s much more complex than it first appears. He must use his right and left brain to impact the viewer by combining humor, sarcasm or firmness in the appropriate moments. He must consider all options before making a decision. Design is not a linear process. Designers often take detours to gather information and consider many options before deciding what they will do. Divergent Thinking is what designers use. They may make mind-maps or sketch, take photos, or draw flowcharts. Designers should not be overly critical of their findings. It is important to explore all the possibilities. Next, you will need to decide on the most appropriate & efficient solution. The data can be analyzed by designers at this stage. They often seek feedback from potential audiences.
Design is not possible without research. Assumptions do not facilitate effective design. Ethnography is a research activity that involves documenting and observing user behaviours using video or camera, and then taking notes and analyzing them to draw conclusions. Surveys, interviews
Competitive Analysis — Understanding your competitors and their current position in the market
Secondary research — review of statistics related to users/markets.
