|
Structured
Guides
OVER
TWENTY years' experience in interpretation, publishing and exhibitions
has allowed us to develop our own distinctive
style. The mature evolution of this style is perhaps
best seen in the some of our latest work for the National Trust
- in both exhibitions and guides.
Underpinning
our approach is the concept of 'structured information'.
A hierarchy of carefully selected information is set out in such
a way as to make it understandable in an immediate and intuitive
way to a wide audience.
The information
is made to work on different levels to appeal to readers of different
ages, abilities and learning styles. Information may be expressed
either in words or images, and in a variety of forms. Readers are
encouraged to assimilate information in their preferred style, through
a rich mixture of images and text. Accessibility is the key.
Structured
information typically uses a palette of textual and visual techniques.
These
may include a combination of any of the following:
-
General to particular structure
- Theming
- Underlying
narrative drive
- Multi-layered
text
- Text
hierarchies
- Descriptive
titles and taglines
- Overviews
and précis
- Enlarged
introductory paragraphs
- Copy
fitted paragraphs
- Descriptive
subheads
- Text
boxes
- Titled
and expanded captions
- Quotes
and callouts
- Source
and archival material
- Time
charts
- Illustrated
timelines
- Textual
numbering
- Colour
coding
- Anecdotal
or discursive text elements
- Active
language
- Audience
targeting
- Targeted
diction
- Targeted
outcomes
- Keywords
- Bold
or italic highlighting
- Bilingual
text
- Mixed
media images
- Cut-outs
- Diagrams
- Cut-away
drawings
- Reconstruction
drawings
- Annotated
illustrations
- Panoramic
photographs
- Retouched
archival images
- Illustrated
maps
- Aerial
maps
- Picture
maps
- Imitation
woodcuts
- Quality
cartoons
- Innovative
folding and printing techniques
- Environmentally
friendly and recycled papers
- Barcodes
- ISBNs
Innovative
design is also central to our approach.
As well
as structuring the information - both text and images - we believe
in making the design serve the message. Layouts must serve a visual
and logical purpose.
Information
can be targeted at chosen audiences. Information is also structured
to carry key messages and outcomes - behavioural, emotional and
learning. Good design helps get across specific messages.
Numerous
and varied images are used to bring the information alive. Images
may be conventional, panoramic, archival, retouched, re-coloured
or cut-out photographs, images, illustrations and drawings in a
range of media. Drawings, diagrams, maps and photographs are commissioned
where appropriate.
When judiciously
selected, these elements combine to give our guides their distinctive
style and intuitive appeal.
To learn
more, or to discuss your needs without obligation, please contact
us today.
Guides
and Guidebooks: From Concept to Completion
|
