Reading Response# 3 (Micro/Macro Reading)

In the beginning, I had trouble understanding the chapter “Micro/Macro Reading” from Envisioning Information. I was starting to get the concept of what is Micro/Macro design towards the end of the chapter. I felt that I learned a little bit from the reading. However, this chapter starts to really talk about the title of the chapter towards the end instead of through out the reading. I was actually disappointed with the examples of “Micro/Macro Readings” because, they help me to figure out what is going on with the reading. I learn better with pictures, not with words. I was actually frustrated after I was done reading this chapter.
I learn that our eyes can see millions and millions of colors at the same time. I never noticed that our eyes are able to pick up a good amount of visual information at once. Using dots as a representation of many smaller images that does not need to be drawn in details is a major time saver. As upcoming designers, it is important for us to work fast and find great ways to short hand without destroying the design. Unfortunately, I felt that I did not fully understand the Micro/Macro technique when it comes to designing. I really wanted to understand this concept but, I did not.
I wish Tufte, the author of Envisioning Information, would explain a little bit more about Micro/Macro in more details. I feel as if I did not get enough information on this topic. I am still not sure how I can use technique of Micro/Macro design for my own work. I understand that it is good when making maps to have a lot of details, but I did not understand how it is related to statistical analysis? The author just explains about briefly. I do not think he even should put it in his book since, I can not figure out how it is related to the Micro/Macro design. I also, had to re-read this chapter a few times to try to understand certain details.