This book by Josef Müller-Brockmann aimed to solve the graphic designer’s problem of finding the appropriate contemporary form. It became a standard work that still serves as a historic practical guide well beyond the boundaries of Switzerland. This edition is an unabbreviated reconstruction of the original edition of 1961, a hardcover with jacket. It includes the additions made by Josef Müller-Brockmann himself for the paperback edition of 1983.

In the first section, the path from illustrative to functional graphic design is traced, as well as the meaning of design elements, their use and effect in every area of advertising: business printed matter, advertisements, brochures, books, posters, and exhibitions. A second section contains fundamental thoughts concerning the work of the graphic designer. The chapter “Science and Visual Communication” covers the area of semiotics and communications research. And in the third part, the practical results of a systematic method of teaching are illustrated. Müller-Brockmann's book is a valuable survey of the fundamental tasks of design and a classic text.

Designed by Josef Müller-Brockmann

Published by Niggli
Third edition, 2003

In German, English and French

Hardcover, 200 pages, 735 b&w and color illustrations, 10.5 × 9.2 inches

ISBN: 978-3-7212-0466-7