CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 6. Illustrate: Drawing the Diagram

“Graphical excellence is that which gives to the viewer the greatest number of ideas in the shortest time with the least ink in the smallest space.”

— Edward R. Tufte

The Visual Display of Quantitative Information

IN THIS CHAPTER
  • Layout and form of a diagram
  • Consolidating the content
  • Designing the information
  • Tools and software
  • Case Study: Mapping the Lab Test Experience

“I’m not a graphic designer and can’t draw. How can I possibly create a diagram?” I get that reaction a lot in my classes and workshops on alignment diagrams.

There’s good news: creating an alignment diagram is not primarily about artistic talent. The task at this point is to compile all of your findings into a single, cohesive story. In some respects, creating an insightful storyline is the hard part.

Consider the diagram in Figure 6-1, created by Eric Berkman, a design strategist and author of Designing Mobile Interfaces (O’Reilly, 2011). It’s visually minimal, but reveals key insights about both negative and positive service aspects at a Starbucks coffee shop.

Or, review the diagram in the case study at the end of Chapter 5 created by Amber Brown. This simple arrangement of colored boxes had an impact on the organization and provided valuable insight.

Yes, graphic design plays a role in creating a diagram. Depending on your skills ...

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