This week is the official launch of our new book Information Design Unbound. Key Concepts and Skills for Making Sense in a Changing World!

While technically a textbook, the book presents a practical, yet reflective approach to teaching and learning information design, where readers are encouraged to go develop awareness about their own way of thinking and doing before embarking in the creation of a full information design project. The book also breaks from tradition by presenting a more contemporary and expansive view of the information design practice while also respecting its historical evolution and legacy.

Traditionally, information design education has put more attention on teaching (1) data and technology and on (2) how to create artifacts, but less on building fundamental sensemaking skills, the thinking/conceptual steps, and on the process. However, to effectively prepare students to engage in a more varied scope of challenges – including Communications, Experiences, Organizations, and Systems – the traditional master-apprentice model can fall short. Nowadays what is urgently needed is not to only focus on the doing or learning the latest technology, but on the mindset because developing stronger sensemaking competency in imperative to help people navigate complexity and the fast pace of life. This involves to engage in deeper, more collaborative knowledge work with diverse stakeholders to map out messy situations, identify gaps, integrate perspectives, and build shared understanding before doing. We unpack four core competencies that are the foundation of all information design projects: Visual Thinking, Research, Sensemaking, and Design.

To learn more about the book and our writing journey, join us this week in the first in-person event – you can also get a signed copy! The event is organized by the College of Arts, Media, and Design (CAMD) at Northeastern University in Boston (MA).

Stay tuned for more events and updates in the book website!

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Event details: Thursday November 2^nd, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm – Center for Design, Northeastern University (Boston)