Information Design Lab

Overview

We investigate what makes information accessible,

understandable, usable and attractive

The Information Design Lab (IDL) is a research and consultancy unit at the School of Design, Hong Kong Polytechnic University dedicated to investigating what makes the design of information accessible and easy to understand. The IDL’s primary focus is on the processes influencing how people recognise, make sense of, process, remember and learn various types of information. We adopt user-centered research methods to ensure that solutions are accessible, usable, understandable, as well as attractive for the intended users. The research spans across all media, types of users and contexts of use.

The IDL aims to develop information design as a distinct field of scholarship and practice, and to advocate for the value of information design in Hong Kong and beyond. The lab actively explores new possibilities for the design of effective information, and generates new knowledge through the development of theories, models, processes and methodologies. IDL also conducts practice-led research and actively engages in knowledge transfer.

Aims

To develop information design as a distinct field of scholarship;
To function as a think tank for issues related to information design;
To advocate for the value of information design in Hong Kong; and
To foster a research culture on the topic of information design within the School and to provide a platform for collaboration and exchange amongst faculty members.

Objectives

To investigate what makes the design of information usable and effective for a diversity of users, contexts and media through applied research and consultancy;
To explore new possibilities for the design of information;
To generate new knowledge on information design through the development of theories, models, processes and methodologies;
To disseminate knowledge and research findings on information design to relevant stakeholders and to establish connections with the design industry and the public; and
To bridge research and the learning and teaching of information design through educational initiatives, particularly in the form of work-integrated education