Beyond Braille

Another finding on the SCAD library;

Trevor Conrad’s thesis research paper initially caught my eye, because of the title: “Beyond Braille: Graphic Design for the Visually Impaired.” Yet, there are many things to talk about when it comes to the paper and its comparisons to the previously discussed paper “Inclusive Design.”

We had just finished discussing the mechanics of Jessica’s paper, which provided a great cushion for the reader to better understand the issues at hand, prior to going into the actual visual elements of the research. Trevor’s paper does quite the opposite, to what we had just concluded as successful.

Beyond Braille’s mechanics are primarily based on the visual issue at hand. The first half of the research is separated into five categories: inclusive design, design responsibility, gray design, design and law, and artist statement. Just by reading the titles, one can immediately tell that these categories fall back on the visual experience rather than the factual background.

Can we determine one more successful than another?

Though many can argue that it falls back onto the individual and their preferences, I believe it is more successful to provide the reader with all the background information, facts, and history, prior to making an analysis based on what we can do as graphic designers to help the visually impaired.

The cushion is important to prepare the reader on what is to come. To help the reader understand the subject at hand, before they making their own conclusion. To help the reader step into your shoes and understand the research.

What do you think?