What is Output?

Data-Design Dictionary
A dictionary to illuminate data-driven generative design and creative coding.

Definition

In the context of data-driven generative design, the term output is used in particular to describe the so-called ‘input-output model’. It refers to the spectrum of possible output formats that can arise from the generative process. The program can transform data into a variety of media-specific manifestations. Music, sculpture, architecture, clothing – stories from data can be transformed across the full range of the physical and digital worlds and given form as output.

For example, stock market data could influence the shape of a physical sculpture, music could guide the hand of a drawing robot, or the text of a book could illustrate its own cover. The choice of output medium and media-specific expression should be made – analogously to the input – depending on strategy and concept.

The bigger picture of designing and branding with data: