Information Design | Flip Classroom

3/2/25 - 17/3/25 | Week 1 - 7

You Siyuan / 0366978

Information Design / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media / Taylors University

FLIP Classroom

CONCENT

   1. Instructions

    2. Flip Project 

        Flip 1 |Types of Infographics

        Flip 2 | Saul Wurman's LATCH Theory

        Flip 3 |Miller's Law of Memory

        Flip 4 | Manuel Lima's 9 Directives Manifesto

    3. Reflection

INTRODUCTION

FLIP PROJECT

In this task, our team looks at different information design principles, like Saul Wurman’s LATCH theory, Miller’s Law (Chunking), and Manuel Lima’s 9 Directives. These ideas help us organize and present data in a clear, user-friendly way.

This document shows our research, analysis, and how we applied these principles to create an infographic. Our goal is to see how these theories improve information structure and visual clarity.

Our team has eight members, and each person contributed to the project as follows:

Sin Jun Ming (0364638)
Natalie Chu Jing Xuan (0354589)
Jie Xuan (0356515)
Chan Xiang Lam (0358400)
Yan Zhi Xuan (0369425)
You Siyuan (0366978)
Iman Mikudim (0338004)
Esma Reza (0339055)

FLIP 1: Types of Infographics

In Flip 1, we learned about the many types of infographics and their uses. Infographics are visual representations that transform complex data into a more intuitive, understandable form. The course introduces 11 common types, including statistical charts, comparison charts, timelines, hierarchical charts, flow charts, interactive charts, geographic infographics, resume charts, charts, and list infographics. Each type has a specific purpose and is suitable for different content and target audiences. This lesson focuses on how to choose the right type of chart to enhance the readability, narrative, and interest of the audience.

Fig 1.1 Types of Infographics | Week 1 (4/2/25)

FLIP 2: Saul Wurman's LATCH Theory

Flip 2 focuses on the LATCH theory developed by Richard Saul Wurman, which defines five common ways of organizing information: location, alphabetical order, time, category, and hierarchy. These principles help organize content clearly and make it easier for users to find and understand information. Through concrete examples, we learned the practical application of these methods, such as maps, dictionaries, timetables, product categories, and leaderboards.

Fig 1.2 Saul Wurman's L.A.T.C.H Theory | Week 2 (11/2/25)

FLIP 3: Miller's Law of Memory

In Flip 3, we explored Miller's Law, which states that human short-term memory typically holds about 7±2 pieces of information. As a result, we learned how to enhance memory and understanding by dividing information into meaningful units. We apply this principle in infographics and UI/UX design, such as limiting key content, grouping relevant information, and optimizing visual presentation. In addition, we clarify some common misconceptions about the law and emphasize that designs should be based on well-thought-out principles rather than mechanically following numerical limits.

Fig 1.3 Miller's Law of Memory | Week 3 (18/2/25)

FLIP 4: Manuel Lima's 9 Directives Manifesto

Flip 4 introduces Manuel Lima's 9 Principles of Information Visualization, a set of design guidelines that are both effective and ethical. These principles include core concepts such as "form should serve function," "Interactivity is critical," and "avoid unnecessary visual elements." They emphasize that information visualization should be clear, relevant, transparent, and have a good narrative. The manifesto urges designers to prioritize user understanding over aesthetics, while ensuring that data visually presents key information without being distracted by too many visual elements.

Fig 1.4 Manuel Lima’s 9 Directives Manifesto | Week 4 (25/2/25)

REFLECTIONS

Experience 

Through the FLIP demo, our group explored information design and data visualization in depth. Each preparation requires research and collaboration, which not only enhances our ability to organize and communicate information, but also enhances the confidence of classroom presentations.

Observation

We have found that visual examples make complex concepts easier to understand, and presentations with practical applications are more engaging to the audience. In addition, LATCH and Chunking are widely used in UX/UI design, while Manuel Lima's directive is more focused on data visualization.

Finding 

These demonstrations give us insight into the core principles of information design. Choosing the right type of infographic is critical, with LATCH providing a clear organization method, Chunking helping to improve memory, and Manuel Lima's nine instructions helping to build a structured, easy-to-understand data visualization.