The Reverse Blink Test

One of the primary aims of the Infogineering Processes is to reshape your information so it allows people to understand what you are trying to get across as quickly as possible.

The Reverse Blink Test allows you to see if you have achieved this.

It's particularly useful when putting together graphs and charts in reports and PowerPoint slides. Never expect people to read anything remotely complicated off a projection screen.

To run the test, all you do is close your eyes, open them for half a second before shutting them again. In the time you have your eyes open, you should be able to grasp the basic point of what you are trying to get across.

If you think it will take more than a few seconds for them to understand the point, you might consider using one of the Infogineering Processes to make it clearer - e.g. Simplifying, Filtering, Colours. Remember, you can also use Layered Complexity if you fear you have cut out too much.