The economic study Media in the Workplace was the result of an intense data collection project by Ball State’s Center for Media Design. CBER researchers then analyzed the data and drew conclusions, which were then used to assess the implications of being exposed to various media while at work. The hope is that this study will trigger more research into the ever-changing work environment and promote conversations about how to better use communication technologies.
This study contained many challenges for the CBER design team. Not only was the data confusing (some aspects very broad and others very specific) but also the sheer amount of “stuff” was overwhelming. The design and research teams worked together over several months to make sure each figure communicated the results clearly and the text was understandable and accurate. I established a palette of 11+ colors, redesigned figures, and arranged the pages—working from a bare bones version created by the publications/web supervisor. She was the pioneer; I was the clean-up crew.
