Questions for Organization and Visual Structure by Mullet & Sano:

  1. Briefly explain the key benefits introduced by visual structure.

  2. What is the meaning of Gestalt? Briefly describe the Gestalt principles.

  3. First, look at Figure 97 on page 92. Can we say similarity is more important than proximity in grouping ? If yes, why? If no, why not?

  4. How can asymmetric layout achieve balance (not producing a sense of instability) and equilibrium? How can you balance the window in Figure 114 (page 104)?

  5. List the advantages/disadvantages of symmetry.

  6. What are the two most important tools for constructing visual hierarchies? And which one of the two is the most important (perceptually powerful and immediate) means of establishing relationship among elements?

  7. How can we produce optically equivalent scaling for circles, squares and diamonds when we design icons ?

  8. What is negative space? What is the use of negative space? Isn't it a waste of expensive space? Should we consider this technique even when we design UIs of handheld devices (such as Palm pilot)?

  9. Using the techniques described in this chapter, how can one influence the way users will naturally scan a display. Pick two ads in a magazine and analyze their layout. What is the author of the ad is trying to do?

  10.  Propose a new design for Figure 119 or Figure 120a.