Design as externalization

Abstract

The article is concerned with a central contribution of designing to information visualization in the digital humanities. The activity is characterized as one of externalization, instantiation in visible or tangible form of ideas. A spectrum of different interpretations of this process in the existing literature is discussed. The arguments are illustrated with recent practical examples from the authors’ own work in designing with a range of cultural organizations. The article concludes with reflections on how projects may best benefit from this work of design, empowering the designer as a co-researcher, alongside the historian, curator or other humanities scholar.

Design Judgment in Data Visualization Practice

“…Although only speculation, as no formal analysis has been done, the evolution of the VIS community may be somewhat similar in the following way: the first generation parallels early work on architectural models and the infovis design space [25]; the second generation parallels the more recent popularity of design studies [83]; and the third generation, in which design is seen as an activity distinct from research and application, with its own forms of knowing and thinking, is not yet as popular-although some scholars have approached visualization design this way (e.g., with respect to design as externalization [33], the role of aesthetics [63,75] and criticism [49]). If researchers are to really understand and influence design practice, we need to expand our scope and philosophy to include characteristics of this third phase.…”

Generative Design Inspiration for Glyphs with Diatoms

“…Spatially juxtaposing alternative designs is common across visual disciplines. Scholars studying the history of design employ this technique to study variations across designers, historical periods, and geography, facilitating conversation among collaborators and inspiring new research questions [21]. Meanwhile, designers collect and visually juxtapose design inspiration produced by others, whether on physical walls or virtual whiteboards.…”

Can I believe what I see? Data visualization and trust in the humanities

“…We have discussed elsewhere the varied relationships of design to knowledge, research and critical practice (Boyd Davis and Vane 2020). Dörk et al (2013) emphasize the need to ask how values and intentions shape visualization practice and how visualization can influence, manipulate, and empower, in a critical approach that is reflexive about the tools, methodologies, and theoretical frameworks it employs.…”