(Readings) Chapter 7: Designing Documents and Websites

In chapter seven many design secrets and tricks of the trade are discussed when it comes to appropriate document design. One example I found to be most helpful and interesting were the four principles of document design. These concepts are taken from the book The Non-designer's Design Book written in 2008 by Robin Williams (not to be confused with the comedian).

In the book, the author Robin Williams discusses the relationship between proximity, alignment, repetition, and contrast, as well as how without these four major components a document can become virtually unreadable to its audience. Furthermore, these principles seem quite simple and easy to understand, making them appealing to any level writer.

As a reader myself, I have always found that the documents style and organization are one of the most important aspects in order to process the information being presented. Thus, I believe making the design principles concept one of the most important to understand in this chapter.

Below is a video featuring an interview conducted with Robin Williams herself, her favorite typefaces to use, and what makes them important.