Visualizing Complexity
Handbuch modulares Informationsdesign
Modular Information Design (MID)
Concept: A systemic framework for information design
First published: May 2022 in Visualizing Complexity
Languages: 224 pages, available in German or English
Impact: Over 4,000 copies sold and 1,300+ students worldwide
Awards: 9 international distinctions
The Idea
Traditional visualizations are often mathematically precise but visually uninspiring – people overlook them. At the other extreme, some designs are visually striking but difficult to read, evoking a sense of unexplained magic rather than clarity. The challenge is to create a comprehensive, methodologically grounded framework that bridges this gap – making information design both understandable and engaging, teachable and systematic.
The Principle
MID systematically breaks down visualizations into 80 basic elements that are structured in four interconnected dimensions. These elements can be encoded in almost unlimited combinations. Just as the periodic table organizes chemical elements and makes new compounds predictable, MID structures visual building blocks to support systematic creativity. The system takes an analog approach - starting with pen and paper - to deliberately slow down the process. This promotes a deeper understanding and leads to better results before moving on to digital tools.
The Book
Visualizing Complexity, the Modular Information Design Handbook introduces MID: a flexible, structured system for anyone working to communicate information through design. The approach combines data and Swiss graphic design into a coherent visual language, supported by real-world case studies. The book guides readers from raw content to data-driven visualizations through a clear storyline that outlines every step of the process.