Design and the Digital Humanities: A Handbook for Mutual Understanding

Design and the Digital Humanities is a practical guide for academics, researchers, and professionals involved in the digital humanities, as well as designers working with them. It prepares readers from both fields for working together, outlining disciplinary perspectives and lessons learned from over twenty years of experience. The book argues that the twin disciplines of visual communication design and digital humanities are natural allies, with much to be gained from forming alliances. It covers core design and DH principles, with illustrated case studies from cutting-edge interdisciplinary research projects. The book is suitable for use as an undergraduate or masters-level text, or as an in-the-field reference guide.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2022
Publisher: Intellect Books

This comprehensive guide is a valuable resource for academics, researchers, and professionals engaged in the digital humanities, as well as designers collaborating with them. It equips readers from both fields with the necessary skills and knowledge to work effectively together, offering insights from over twenty years of experience and featuring over two dozen practical exercises.

At its core, the book posits that the fields of visual communication design and digital humanities (DH) are natural partners, holding immense potential for researchers, students, and practitioners alike. The disciplines share a fundamental belief in the value of interdisciplinarity, as their training, experiences, and inclinations often align. This synergy manifests in a shared interest in research that delves into humanities-related questions and approaches, aimed at improving understanding through repeated observation and discussion. Both design and DH are characterized by their generative nature, with the ultimate goal of creating the next generation of systems and tools, whether for managing information or facilitating communication.

The interdisciplinary nature of this book presents both strengths and challenges. For those who have worked with DH or design, it serves as a valuable handbook that provides a comprehensive overview of terminology, methods, and activities. It offers practical insights and examples of successful collaborations, inspiring individuals to form similar partnerships. Additionally, it can be of interest to those who have encountered design and DH collaborations through literature, presentations, or practical experiences, and are eager to explore similar opportunities.

However, it is important to note that despite their shared characteristics, design and digital humanities also exhibit distinct differences. These differences can pose challenges in terms of communication and collaboration, requiring a nuanced understanding and approach. The book aims to address these challenges by providing a comprehensive framework that fosters cross-disciplinary dialogue and collaboration.

In conclusion, this book serves as a crucial resource for anyone seeking to bridge the gap between design and digital humanities. It offers a comprehensive and practical guide that prepares readers from both fields for effective collaboration, promotes interdisciplinarity, and fosters innovation. By embracing the interdisciplinary nature of this book, researchers, students, and practitioners can unlock new opportunities for knowledge creation and dissemination in the digital age.

Weight: 492g
Dimension: 170 x 243 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789383584
Edition number: New ed