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DEVELOP CONCEPTS
3
Appropriateness
Be flexible in applying the
rules that follow.
There are no hard and fast rules for graphic design.
Advice that works in one circumstance may not apply in
another. Success in graphic communications is based on
appropriately relating the elements of graphic design to
their surroundings. Choose the particular arrangement
that works best in its respective environment.
Appropriateness is based on proportion. The size of any
graphic element should be based on the size of the page, the
graphic elements that surround it and the emphasis you want
it to receive.
Appropriateness also relates to the publication’s audience
and content. Whether or not a graphic solution is appropriate
depends upon two issues: how much it furthers the publica-
tion’s purpose and whether it is suitable for your audience. A
legal document should have a totally different appearance
than a grocery store handout.
Consistency
Consistency helps to organize information.
Be consistent in the way you handle the various ele-
ments of graphic design, both within each page and
within a publication.
If you use 1-inch margins on page 1, for example, use
1-inch margins throughout the publication. If some of your
headlines are set flush left, all headlines should be set flush
left. Do not change typeface or type size unless there are
compelling reasons to do so; such as when you want to attract
attention to certain elements.
Inconsistent handling of design elements leads to
confusion, which will weaken your publication.