Decoding Design, by Maggie Macnab, Book Review
Jacob Van Ness

July, 2008

Today's fast paced world tends to lose track of its surroundings and move away from understanding nature's relationship. Ironically nature has embedded itself into all we do and it's a big part of logo design, even if we tend to be unaware of that.

In Decoding Design: Understanding and Using Symbols in Visual Communication, Maggie Macnab does a wonderful job of pushing aside some of the everyday noise and clutter to reveal how the nature of numbers and symbols are deeply rooted in design. Using both a scientific and philosophical approach, each chapter does a wonderful job of revealing some hidden gems about logo design. As the numbered chapters 0-10 progress, these hidden gems bring about an amazing awareness, almost an enlightenment about how certain logos have come to be what they are. Focusing on the strength of the number and shape involved in the design.

While many of us are taught the philosophy of K.I.S.S., sometimes "keeping it simple, stupid" doesn't always mean the logo is truly simple at it's core. Logo design is a process, sometimes very complex, that goes on between a designer and a client. Decoding Design, helps you be better prepared for that process through case studies and "deconstructions" of logos we see regularly. These explanations are by no means shallow but rather deep with information and theory. Examples range from the author's own work to many other well known designers in the field. It was especially nice to see sketched concepts, as well as the finished logo. Giving even more insight into the process.

Decoding Design is wonderfully written and points are nicely displayed visually with many examples throughout the book. The design of the book itself is very intriguing and well thought out. In particular, the cover design is interesting with a wheel showing simplistic examples of what the book is all about. This is an excellent interactive feature.

This book is not a light read and some may find it a bit overwhelming with its large amount of well researched information. By no means does this mean anyone should shy away from this book. Just take your time and absorb this books theory. That is exactly what this book is all about; design theories. It is a MUST READ for any design professional involved with the process of logo design. It will surely open your eyes to things that may have been swirling around you all these years without notice. Nature is all around us and influences all we do. Let this book help you "reconnect" and bring your visual communications to the next level.

You can learn more through Maggie's website dedicated to the book, www.decodingdesign.com. On the site you will find a great video that I highly recommend you watch!

Book URL:
www.decodingdesign.com

Book Details:
* Softcover: 2256 pages
* Author: Maggie Macnab
* Publisher: HOW (Feb 04, 2008)
* Language: English
* ISBN-10: 1581809697
* ISBN-13: 978-1581809695
* Price: $35.00