The new edition is basically a complete overhaul of the original, very popular edition. The design process is explored in incremental stages, taking one elemental at a time. Each section offers advice on methods and uses of self-assessment. Book is made up of 3 sections each with topics illustrated with 9-12 specifically-commissioned mini designs to show options, set exercises for reader and then self-critique and professional examples from around the world. Sections are:

Basic design principles (60 pps) teaches ground rules of balance and harmony in design including basic design, typefaces, color

Design decisions (36 pps) looks at areas of design and how each may be analyzed including initial brief & decisions, analysis of copy, analysis of imagery, analysis of results

Design projects and categories (38 pps) showing how the principles have been applied including information design, text & display type, primarily display type

This edition contains updated examples from international designers and design agencies and newly worked examples and projects to meet the needs of a younger generation designing in the new millennium. One added area of particular interest is the Internet, with examples and a project on home page and links design. The book is four-color throughout and has a completely new and modern design that focuses on style, clarity and ease of learning. Exercises have been devised to enable the reader to practice as they learn. Revised by David Dabner with Alan Swann's name still attached as primary author.