Information Design Trends Unit Three: Information Visualization Lecture 3: Visual Languages

Diagrams : Exploratory Graphics The diagram can present at a glance what a verbal description can only present in a sequence of statements. A diagram is the ideal mode for describing relations between things. Detecting patterns in a field of text is virtually impossible. Visual information triggers long-term memory adding even more information and perceptions.

What is a Visual Language? A visual language consists of a set of basic graphical objects and a set of operations or methods that you can perform on them: The graphical symbols should be kept as simple as possible instead of having a high information density There should be a hierarchic structure Concepts should describe the attributes and relationships within the group

The Graphic Tools (CT) A formalized language for capturing creative flashes and synthesizing exploratory thoughts Attempts to extend the designers ability to think visually and systemically Used to envision systems as whole entities rather than discrete and isolated objects

The shapes of Graphic Tools Six basic shapes. Each shape represents a different basic concept or function. Individual shapes used in combination convey more complex ideas, reveal relationships, and capture the formation of ideas and thoughts.

The Unified Modeling Language (UML) The UML is an evolutionary general- purpose, broadly applicable, tool- supported, and industry-standardized modeling language. It applies to a multitude of different types of systems, domains, and methods or processes. The UML enables the capturing, communicating, and leveraging of strategic, tactical, and operational knowledge.

Business Process Modeling “Examining our business entities, activities, and processes from an object-oriented approach can be more effective in capturing and sharing knowledge.” -- Richard Karash