Chapter 11. Working With Illustrations

A good illustration transmits dense and complex information at a glance. It also helps a reader retain more information. Combining text and images focuses attention and helps a reader filter data quickly for specific information. As documentation moves online, you might find yourself in the role of a screenwriter or director as you blend text, still images, video, audio, and animation in online multimedia documents.

A high level of image quality is essential to visual communication in any medium. From the printed page, to paint on canvas, to dots on a computer screen, similar rules apply. Even though the elements of good visual art can sometimes defy simple explanation, most people can say they know quality when they see it. In basic terms, the human eye should be able to scan a quality image without backtracking to retrace a path or disengaging to refocus. Quality images also contain balanced elements, consistent line weights, and a discernible flow.