A Comparison of Typefaces for the Telephone Directory

Abstract

ABSTRACT  A new typeface, Bell Centennial, proposed for use in Australian telephone directories is compared to the typeface, Bell Gothic, which is used at present. The comparison was made using five alternative typographical layouts and the criteria for evaluation were errors made reading the sample material, reading speed and time taken to search for target telephone numbers. Bell Centennial in medium or light typeface used for the address information is less legible than Bell Gothic medium because of its smaller letter size and the lighter typeface. Bell Centennial in bold face used for the subscriber's name and initials and for the telephone number may be slightly more legible than Bell G..