Om Centre for Visibility Design

We combine methods from psychophysics with research-by-design, and investigate aspects of 1) typeface and pictogram legibility, 2) data visualization, and 3) new ways of reading through the use of modern technology. 

Psychophysics is a well-established field of research within psychology that investigates the relationships between physical stimuli (the design) and perception. We use our practical knowledge of design to make appropriate changes to the stimuli and employ methods of statistical analysis to measure the effect of these design changes on perceptual performance. To ensure the relevance of the findings for the user and the scientific validity of the experiments, we have designers define the research questions and develop the test material, while psychologists and vision scientists create the experimental paradigm and analyse the resulting data. We are committed to create universal design that can improve everyday life for all.

Typeface and pictogram legibility
We strive to produce new knowledge that can provide the tools to create the most legible typography, for both normally sighted and low-vision readers. Our findings can help optimize challenging legibility situations, including text on traffic and road signs, type and pictogram on medicine packaging, small point sizes in newspapers or any other reading situation where letters and words can be difficult to perceive.

Data visualisation
In an ideal world, data visualizations, infographics or other types of visualizations empower people with information clearly and truthfully, however the reverse often happens. We strive to gain a deeper understanding of when and how visualizations of data mislead. By determining and testing different visual features we hope to help designers base their choices on scientific evidence and thus avoid the misinformation of audiences.

When the text reads you
Imagine intelligent text that can read you while you read the text. The rapid development within modern technology is accompanied by an as-yet underexplored potential for designing new reading platforms. It can help those who struggle with reading and can enable reading in situations where it was not previously possible. By measuring the reader’s eye movements, such a platform can analyse their reading strategy and identify whether they are, for example, novice readers, elderly readers or speed readers, or whether they have difficulty concentrating. Based on this information, the text can adjust to the reader’s needs by restructuring the content or modifying the typographical layout. The technology is available to us; we just need to identify and develop the possibilities.