In a message dated 8/23/2002 9:54:09 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

<< I'm fairly certain I read somewhere that keyed ID systems are less
effective than individual labels.  I'll try to find the cite this weekend.
  >>

I certainly agree that individual labels are generally more "effective"
because they're less work for the viewer, but only up to a variable point of
diminishing returns.  This is a design issue.  When you have many small
objects within a comparatively small area, individual labels make the display
look cluttered, and clutter discourages (some) people from reading.  If the
labels are larger than the objects, the display can look cluttered,
unbalanced, and even silly.  Numbers keyed to a separate label list require
more effort from the viewer, but can produce a more attractive display.  Some
visitors may be put off by the need to check a number against a list, while
others may actually be intrigued and attracted by the matching game.  The
curator and designer often have to work out a compromise and should recognize
the fact that no decision will satisfy everyone.

David Haberstich

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