I keep all my research work and notes inside Obsidian. The graph above is what years of reading, thinking, analysing, writing, and planning look like. Each dot represents a note. It can be a reading, a concept, a dataset, a thought... The lines show linkages between notes. Until I get a physical copy of my dissertation, this graph is the closest visual manifestation of my PhD.
The loose cloud towards the top is readings, concepts, plans, and drafts. The denser cloud towards the bottom is field data and their analyses. Around the periphery are notes that do not directly connect to other notes.
In my few years as a designer, almost everything I did was visually manifested. Over time, my work has evolved to become more experiential, interpersonal, and in-the-moment. Physical manifestations became functional documents, reports, and diagrams. Initially, there were printed hard copies. These days, everything is digital. Even so, my work continues to push towards the intellectual, experiential, and ephemeral.
Do I miss not having a visual portfolio of work? I think not. Instead of a portfolio, what I need to remind myself of regularly is the difference I make to individuals and groups, to remember the lightbulb moments, the shared connections, the brief moments of travelling together.
