[book] Visual Research: An Introduction to Research Methodologies in Graphic Design

"From the Publisher. Visual Research: An Introduction to Research Methodologies in Graphic Design (second edition) is a guide to the practice of researching for graphic design projects. This book explains the key terms and theories that underlie design research; examining the importance of audience, communication theory, semiotics and semantics. It features a range of case studies that demonstrate how the use of rigorous research methods can form the basis of effective visual communication and design problem solving, eschewing end product analysis for a discussion of the way research feeds into the design process. This edition also includes 12 new international case studies, end of chapter exercises, a new chapter on Visual Grammar and a foreword by Ellen Lupton, an internationally renowned graphic designer, writer, curator and educator."

http://www.designersandbooks.com/book/visual-research-second-edition
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Visual-Research-Introduction-Methodologies-Graphic/dp/2940373205