Andrew Robertson
Saturday, June 22, 2019
I like maps. And I like transportation. The two go together, and they impose order on the world. With a map, I can get anywhere. I also draw maps for fun. While some people cultivate rock gardens, I draw. I like following and creating methodical process and adapting them for use in other situations. There is a wonderful “Aha!” feeling that comes about from recognizing something that’s been dome before in a new situation.
In a similar vein, I also enjoy good design. I am especially interested in signage systems. (I’m currently exploring TTC signs.)
Proposed overhead signs for Yorkdale Station I created after walking to the wrong end of the platform. It should follow current TTC guidelines. Graphics are © TTC and are taken from the draft Signage Manual 2014.
Again, I like the helpful order they offer to the weary traveller, and I appreciate how a good system or standard can help others. I try to do this in my work, too. Good documentation (or signage) is important, and I try to make what I do helpful to others who might come later (even if it’s me who comes later!).
I like to see what I’m learning. Often, I’ll seek out or create an explanatory diagram and I colour-code and have everything set up just the way I like it. This is another reason I enjoy mapping: it comes naturally to me. In a workplace, I appreciate a well-organized environment with well-defined procedures. I like knowing what sections are where and who does what (including me). If I can understand what each part does, and what the expected inputs and outputs are, I feel I can better understand how the system works, whether that’s a machine, a city, or an office.
Being punctual and reliable is also important to me. I like it when other people are reliable and so I try to be, too. My grandparents were always extremely on time to things growing up. In fact, they were early. It was disturbingly impressive. As it stands now, I find it very important to be on time. Not necessarily as early as my grandparents, but on-time.
Attached is one of the maps I’ve drawn to demonstrate my commitment to order, my attention to detail, and my ability to think inside of my own boxes.
