2D Network Diagram

If you ask me, graphic designers who will land in the technology industry will practice this. Network Diagrams are graphics that provide visualization on how the technology infrastructure works.

For example, a network diagram can show how a disaster recovery environment mirrors the production by using server icons that are symmetrical with each other. A Wide Area Network can be shown connecting different sites. Or a small cell connects with different Mobile Network Operators and amplifies the wifi connection in a particular site with a dead zone.

Other than the technical use of network diagrams, they are used during sales presentations for clients, diagrams for case studies and an explainer video when animated. This means, 2D network diagram serves both technical and entertainment purposes.

But what is the challenge of creating a network diagram? The very foundation of the network diagram graphics is iconography. As discussed in my iconography blog, icons are made up of shapes and lines which are easy to do. Other than drawing each unit, sometimes even adapting the hardware design, you must know how each unit works and how they link with each other. This is where you will be guided by the SMEs.

In real life, the SMEs or Sales will provide narratives, technical specifications and initial draft of the diagram. Understanding what they want to communicate often consumes time. Sometimes it is even harder to fix the network diagram if a technical support makes it. Added to this, it will be helpful if you can read system manuals so you can fully understand how the units work.

Another challenge is how to create icons if they are not available and ensure how they fit inside the slide presentation. Either you’ll download an icon from the platform where you subscribe or draw it on Adobe Illustrator. Doing the layout is actually easier to work in Adobe Indesign rather than in PowerPoint. But of course, your requestors are not graphic designers and they need files that are editable. But as long as you know the layout techniques, you can turn a network diagram in an infographic style even if you are working on a PowerPoint slide.

Last tip, as a graphic designer working on network diagrams, make sure that your drawing skills are parallel with your ability to comprehend the technical information. Always read the resources provided and listen to the hearts of the SMEs.