Information/Instructional Design - Definition

This is the process whereby the artist collects and processes data, to then amalgamate it in to a diagram or graph that is easy and practical to read. It also involves any signage that conveys a message to the viewer, for instance a street sign. These signs take vital information and process them in to a simple statement obvious to the individual of its meaning.

When there is an abundant amount of data to be processed it can become chaotic for the individual or group to take in all that information. Through information and instructional design it takes that data to a level where it is simplistic to understand. It is particularly a great method for those who are visual learners.

Information/Instructional Design - Examples

Train Station Routes

This is a classic example of an easily understandable information/instructional design. Each route is colour coded making it easier to differ each individual track. The stations are also easily evident through the use of a simple offshoot stroke defining the station. The name of each station is also neatly organised, making it easy to follow the intended route of the traveler.

No Parking Sign

These set of signs plainly point out that no vehicle is able to park on the side the arrow denotes during the period of time the sign displays. This is an effective piece of instructional design as it takes a large chunk of information and simplifies it using a mix of typography and symbolic design. To the viewer the possibly large amount of information has been made to seem quiet simplistic.

Interactive Design - Definition

This is the means whereby the user is able to interact with a system and gain feedback for each action provided. The designer is required to not only design but also become the user of their specific system to test its interactivity and effectiveness to the target audience. This form is not only confined to computing systems, but more so distributed to any interactive electronic; for instance, a mobile phone.

As the world is developing in to a more online community interactive design is shaping that world. In this present society effective productivity is highly sought after by the consumer and through the interfaces provided by interactive design this is accomplished. Interactive design has become a huge impact on the individual and their life, and is gradually become not just a part of but life itself.

Interactive Design - Examples

Final Fantasy XI

This game, created by Square-Enix, provides a great user interface as formed by interactive design artists. It allows constant, fluent game play with little difficulties interacting and talking to other players at a consecutive time. The following is a video example of the game's interface. Keep in mind the video is at 2x normal speed due to its original length at 1x speed.







Ford (www.ford.com)

The official website for Ford Motor Company has an excellent example of what interactive design is. It accomplishes this through its online showroom being accommodating to the individual. It allows you to select the minimum seating, fuel efficiency and your price range. It will then adjust which cars you are able to view according to these selections. It is quick and efficient in helping the user to decide on possibilities of their new car.

Web 2.0 - Definition

Originally the Internet was a basis for retrieving information. That was in the time of Web 1.0. Now in the age of Web 2.0 the users of the Internet can not only retrieve information but contribute and interact with the Internet in various aspects. The individual is able to upload and share information or photos for all to see, where others are able to reply with new information. Web 2.0 has transformed the Internet into a hub of continually updated, primary information alongside the abundant secondary information started by Web 1.0.

Web 2.0 has made the Internet more interactive, and controlling to the user. Accessing websites whereby the individual can modify the layout, colour scheme and numerous other aspects to their own preference gives the sense that it is in fact their own. This version invites the user to participate within the Internet rather than be merely a viewer of its existence.

Web 2.0 - Examples

Myspace
- upload photos
- communicate with others
- express your interests

Facebook
- upload photos
- communicate with others
- express your interests

Youtube
- upload videos
- categories are limitless
- comment on videos
- subscribe to users

Forums
- interact with other people across the world
- forums suited to various interests

Wikipedia
- information gathered from many sources
- anyone can contribute
- specific, in-depth Wikipedia's exist (ie. online gaming)