Years ago, municipal infrastructure was just a public service for the community. The county didn't need to spend thousands of dollars a month to get insurance to protect themselves from the people they are serving. The signs around these installations reflected the more casual and matter-of-fact way of life.
The warning sign reflects the mental model of the water agency. The H1 Domestic Water, ok so we are dealing with the water supply for the area. No Trespassing the H2. We should to not be around here. Desert Water Agency, this seems official. State Board of Public Health, ok, clearly this is official.
A very good design. The sign fits in lovely inside the desert city vibes that is Palm Springs. The sign is easy to read, communicates clearly, and is official-looking enough to take seriously. Very good.
Published
Apr 26, 2020
Author
Steve Berry
What's going on here?
Design happens everywhere. We look at it and give you our critique.
By thinking critically about the design that exists around us - evaluating what works, what doesn’t and why - we can apply new perspectives and rigor to our work designing applications and systems and communicate more effectively through design.
Our observations range from big corporate rebrands to local business street fliers. With each, we’ve taken the time to break down the designs and offer our point of view via a ranking system modeled after the Robert Parker wine rating system.
The Rating System
Unsatisfactory: Does not achieve design or communication goals.
Satisfactory: Just enough, sufficient, fine or “sure.”
Good: It’s good.
Very Good: Better than most but not exceptional.
Exceptional: Unusually good, rare, outstanding.
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