Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
chaos.
Functional color is designed for a purpose, color whose aesthetics are linked to its
application or use, such as color used in a presentation or an illustration. We've all
seen slides, Web pages, diagrams, and illustrations (especially computer-
generated ones) with colors that are too bright, too dark, or applied so lavishly the
result could be called “color chaos.” Good functional color design eliminates these
problems with the use of easy-to-read colors that enhance, creating a result that is
both informative and aesthetically pleasing.
Color as identity
Color is the fundamental way we identify objects in the world. Our visual system is
designed to instantly recognize different colors, especially those that stand out from
their backgrounds like ripe fruit on a tree. This ability is not learned, but occurs
“preattentively,” literally, before thought.
Consider this National Park Service map of Point Reyes and its surrounding area.
Like most well-designed maps, it is an excellent example of functional color. Color
is used systematically to label the different regions (water, land, parkland) and to
indicate the different types of roads. Using color to label and identify is its most
powerful function, and should reflect a meaningful vocabulary. In the map, the colors
are chosen according to simple, well-established conventions: blue for water, green
for parks, red for highways.
