Focusing on the typographic development of Araliya, the first digital typeface for Sinhala, this illustrative talk will consider how diverse resources can inform type-design practice. Fiona Ross, an award-winning type historian, type designer, and educator, leads this presentation. Drawing on her extensive experience as a researcher and design practitioner in South Asian type and typography, Fiona will discuss a design methodology that advocates research-based practice to underpin effective textual communication. This talk will also highlight how re-evaluating past practices and critically engaging with current conventions and technologies can enhance typographic communication in complex writing systems.