Organize a design by hierarchy

Good graphic design is always clear in its visual hierarchy, in which important elements are emphasized and content is organized logically and predictably. A hierarchy in a graphic design can be generated by the page layout, size of the elements, contrast, color, shape, position and so on.

Hierarchy is a very important part to form a good design work. Usually we want the element representing the most important information to be the first in hierarchy. This could be the headline text in bold, with strong contrast color to the background, or an interesting image with big size, saturated color or unusual shape to be appealing to the eyes. Elements on top level of hierarchy are to give the audience a summary or principle concept of the message that the design is trying to express. Then the secondary level elements are in the supporting role to give more details or explanations for the headline information. Overall, to achieve a successful design with appropriate hierarchy, we need to be aware of the readers’ expectation and habits. Elements are supposed to be ordered in a logic hierarchy with pleasing visual balance as well. Only then, the message in the design work can be conveyed smoothly and clearly to the audience.

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