Walking through the motions of each day, we pass by numerous billboards, flyers, posters, bulk-mail, spam, road signs, and products. This is so commonplace for many that most do not take the time to realize the culmination of all the work around them.
As I sat in a doctor’s office the other day waiting, I looked from wall to wall trying to find something to read to pass my time. Directly in front of me was a large poster with a human skeletal form with each of the bones labelled. I looked from head to toe trying to name each bone and see if I actually learned anything from my anatomy and physiology classes before I checked the actual names. As I got down to the phalanges of the foot (Yeah, I learned something) I began to notice the layout of it all.
It was an extraordinarily well laid out poster. I took a mental image and cleared away all of the text in my mind. I attempted to lay out the same piece in my head, but found it to be quite a difficult task. It seemed nearly impossible to handle so many words placed so close to each other and keep it all clear and consistent while also allowing a proper balance. I was quite impressed. To think, this wonderfully designed piece of art merely had the simple function of showing the skeletal structure and all I could imagine is how I would love to shake the hand of the designer for a job well done.
I began to look at all of the things on the wall around me and the way that each piece was designed and laid out. Then I moved on the objects such as containers and scales and tables. Each of these were designed to fulfill a specific purpose as well. Thinking of the thoughts that others had to think to create these things was inspiring to me.
I began looking at signs directing me to restrooms and forms I had to sign (which are not so well designed) and all of these things were leading me to do things or conveying messages I needed. Even when the work I feel that I am doing is menial, such as designing signage or small collateral pieces that people will not look at twice, I know that it has a purpose. Though it might not be fully appreciated to the extent that my pride would prefer, I am helping to improve the surrounding environments of the individuals who happen upon it all.
That skeleton helped me to affirm what little knowledge I continue to hold on the human anatomy. I call it a success.