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Image Search Tools in Graphic
Design: Insights From Studios
In Porto
Sofia Lelis

Master Thesis
2024

Advisors:
José Carneiro
Rosemary Lee









#Research #MasterThesis #GraphicDesign #Interviews #CreativeProcess University of Porto (FEUP)
This research explores how image search tools and AI-driven similarity systems influence graphic designers’ creative processes. Based on interviews with 18 designers from studios in Porto, the study identifies two main approaches to finding references: a diverge–converge process centred on visual exploration, and a narrow–expand process focused on conceptual development. The findings show that similarity-based recommendations can either support inspiration or restrict creativity, depending on the designer’s workflow, while issues such as repetitive results, filter bubbles, context collapse, and information overload may discourage their use. The study concludes with recommendations for designing more diverse and effective image search experiences for graphic design.





WHY

Image search is an important reference resource for graphic designers. References can inspire, simplify knowledge generation, and provide examples for layout solutions. Now, graphic designers are increasingly searching on-line for references.


On-line image search tools use similarity systems powered by Artificial Intelligence (Al), such as representation learning methods using Deep Neural Networks (DNN).


Is graphic design becoming increasingly uniform as a result of similarity algorithms? Credits: Elisabeth Godspeed, Eye on Design




RESEARCH QUESTION

How graphic designers use search tools for image search in their work practices?

FOR ANSWER THIS, I INVESTIGATE:

  • How creative processes, reference retrieval practices are related to participants' use of image search tools?
  • How do they report their user experience in similarity systems?
  • Which image search tools do they adopt or avoid, and why?


Some designers were related to a visual way of thinking; Credits: Sofia Lelis 

The “visual” designers described their creative process ass a diverge-converge model.  



Some designers were related to a conceptual way of thinking; Credits: Sofia Lelis 


The “conceptual” designers described their creative process ass a converge-diverge model. 



Full research document including methods, findings and discussion available upon demand: [email protected]