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> The real question, IMHO, is "what characteristics of a typeface (and its
> context, such as color, contrast, line length, kerning, and leading)
enhance
> or detract from its legibility in each medium; that is, print, online,
> film/video, PDA/phone, etc.?
The question is well put. I would add a consideration for
"quantity" as well. A bold, striking heading in 14 pt Arial
Black can be a great aid to comprehension -- but who
wants to read a whole paragraph of it?
What sorts of 'legibility' are there, and when are they
important? How do *combinations* of typefaces on a
page interact to enhance or interfere with comprehension?
Do we need theory to make these choices? Or do
we just need a healthy curiosity, a good pair of eyes
and a clear head?
Edward Tufte said "good type is a solved problem."
Just look at well-designed books, he advised, and borrow
what is relevant for your task.
For the electronic media the same advice might apply --
but what works in print won't necessarily work on-screen.
We do need to be aware of the differences between
print and electronic display devices and their interactions
with the human visual apparatus. Reflected light
versus emitted light; printer resolution versus screen
resolution -- this can all get fairly "technical."
Anyone looking for simple answers will be disappointed.
My advice is -- open your eyes, clear your head, focus
on objectives, and then see what works.
Or you can take the easy way out and say it isn't
important, it's just a lot of foolishness. You know--
like whatsisname.
--
Michael West
Melbourne, Australia
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