Graciela Montgomery - The Longbranch Whale

Project: Informational Design

Duration: 10 weeks, 2021

Tools: Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects

Role with the group: Research

Individual Role: Design process, Ideation, final design

Overview

On September 3, 2020, the skeleton of a Gray Whale was installed in the science building at Seattle Pacific University. The project's directive was to design a series of three informative panels that will be on display at the location. The panels should have included whale anatomy, general facts about the gray whale, a timeline for gathering, assembling, and installation, and data visualization graphics.

Design Process

I was part of a group of four students during the inspiration stage. We conducted research on gray whales and their relationship with the fishing industry. In the Inspiration stage, we conducted traditional desktop research and a survey to gather insights into our audience's knowledge and needs. After analyzing and synthesizing the data, we collected, and created a fictitious persona and empathy map to better understand our audience's motivations and behaviors.

In the Ideation and Implementation stage, each of us designed our own infographic based on the research. We collaborated within the group to obtain feedback and improve our designs. During this stage, I used narrative panels to create a story and a mood board for inspiration. I also created visual and data graphics.

Overall, this project was a collaborative effort where we demonstrated our research skills and ability to analyze and synthesize data, create personas and empathy maps, design infographics, and collaborate effectively within a group. As well as working individually to create the layout and visuals for our infographics.

How can we best inform people of the risks that the fishing industry poses to Gray Whales and their ecosystem?

Narrative Panels