runkotekstistä

Runkoteksti, often translated as "skeleton text" or "framework text," is a concept primarily used in Finnish graphic design and typography. It refers to a loosely structured or partially completed text that serves as a placeholder or guide during the design process. Instead of using random lorem ipsum or generic placeholder text, designers might use runkoteksti to establish a more realistic visual flow and hierarchy within a layout.

The purpose of runkoteksti is to give a better sense of the final appearance of a publication. It might contain actual words, but often these words are not the final content. They can be repetitions of existing phrases, simplified sentences, or even just single words placed strategically to demonstrate spacing, font weight, and size. This approach helps the designer and client to evaluate the legibility, balance, and overall aesthetic of the design before the complete, final text is available.

Using runkoteksti allows for more informed decisions regarding page count, image placement, and the relationship between text and visual elements. It can also highlight areas where text might be too dense or too sparse, prompting adjustments to the design or a revision of the content structure. Essentially, it’s a practical tool for bridging the gap between an empty layout and a fully realized design.