Communication for Designers

“The newest computer can merely compound, at speed, the oldest problem
in the relations between human beings. In the end the communicator will be confronted with the old problem of what to say and how to say it.”
—Edward R. Murrow

 
This course will survey and critically discuss precedents and techniques for clear and effective design communication. Throughout the semester we will study the process of developing, distilling, and articulating a project from thesis statement to final presentation.

 
We will look at examples from within the disciplines of landscape architecture, architecture, and urban design, but will also draw from the fields of graphic design, writing, advertising, exhibition design, and public speaking.

 
Through lectures, case studies, and guest speakers, we will explore the expanded potential of storytelling and how narrative techniques are employed by some of the masters of contemporary design and culture. We will discuss the importance of positioning a project with a particular argument, and will develop techniques for effectively communicating this position through written thesis statements and descriptive writing.

 
We will also study some key competition winning entries, available media and its uses and limitations, editing and ordering visual material to tell a story, designing a presentation for a specific audience, public speaking techniques, and, ultimately, curating your project for maximum impact.

 
This course is specifically designed to address multiple disciplines and enrollment is encouraged for students from the landscape architecture, architecture, and urban planning and design programs.