Students are provided with the knowledge that will enable them to respond to a course and prepare for a career in graphic design. The book begins with an overview of various approaches to graphic design, as well as its inherent language. It goes on to look at methods for generating and developing ideas, research methods, and understanding what is meant by the design brief. The book draws on contemporary and historical sources and concludes with a discussion on the application of the creative idea. Approach and Language is the first title in the Basics Graphic Design series from AVA Publishing. These books cover every aspect of studying a graphic design course. Subjects covered include critical thinking and evaluation, problem solving, the development of project work and the realisation of design practice. Showcasing work from students and practitioners alike, the books provide the student with the tools and inspiration they require to develop their skills in new and emerging technologies, and to become highly motivated and independent individuals with plenty to offer to the design world.

Design Research shows readers how to choose the best method of research in order to save time and get the right results.The book makes readers aware of all the different research methods, as well as how to carry out the most appropriate research for their graphic design projects. All stages of the research process are considered in a dynamic and entertaining style, covering audience, context, trends, sources, documentation, dissemination and more. Students and designers can benefit from this text by learning fresh ways to analyse information obtained by data gathering, and how best to test and prove decisions. The resulting, well-rounded solutions will be informed, innovative, and aesthetically fitting for the brief.

Successful visual outcomes can only be arrived at through the generation of great ideas, driven by research that will ultimately provide the designer with a range of potential design solutions. Basics Graphic Design 03: Idea Generation explores the different ways in which the designer can generate ideas. Consideration is given to audience, context and materials as well as to the many levels of idea generation, from the macro to the micro, from brainstorming to more focused, selective and strategic systems.