Actually Quote by David Carson
“Just because something's legible doesn't means it communicates. More importantly, it doesn't mean it communicates the right thing. So, what is the message sent before somebody actually gets into the material? And I think that's sometimes an overlooked area.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Design Talk, 2005
Clarity of design is not just about readability; it must convey the intended meaning accurately before the audience engages.
In simple terms: Legibility alone doesn't guarantee effective communication.
Key Takeaway
Ensure design conveys the right message, not just readable text.
Themes
design
communication
clarity
perception
message
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
analytical
insightful
When to use this quote
- branding
- web design
- advertising
- educational materials
Key Concepts
visual hierarchy
semiotics
user experience
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you test whether a design's message matches its intent?
- What cues indicate a message is being misinterpreted?
A Different Perspective
A visually clear layout can still mislead if the underlying message is ambiguous.
![“[On political correctness:] Any intended message mattered less than the received message, and every received message could be interpreted in whatever way the receiver wanted.” quote by Chuck Klosterman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/981/chuck-klosterman-804_messages_on-political-correctness-any-intended-me_120570.jpg)
