My second project for TCUK25 was to create a ticket prices overview table. 

 

The first version borrowed the layout I used for the ‘How to Get to TCUK25’. I shared it in Basecamp, and the feedback from my working team was unanimous (and yes, a bit ‘devastating’!): this type of content needed a radically different approach to the how to guide. So, go back to the drawing table.

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In the Diátaxis framework, a ‘how to’ content is a procedure, but a ticket prices page is reference content. Reference content aims to help readers to make a quick decision by presenting the right facts in a clear format (and with a call to action).

 

The team shared examples of formats better suited to an ‘at-a-glance’ overview of prices and categories.

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From those examples, I chose a design that resembles a paper folder with tabs, and I produced four versions.

 

Creating multiple variants made me realise that each table represented a different way of understanding the conference, our members, the ticket categories, and the ISTC itself.

 

Up until that moment, I hadn’t appreciated how a “simple” table can shape how you perceive an event, or the organisation behind it.

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Obviously, each table emphasised one of the aspects of a good, well rounded Conference ticket. We think our choice, prototype 4 responded to the needs of our members and the organisation. 

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