An effective poster is a visual communications tool

BY George Hess :: Kathryn Tosney :: Leon Liegel- www.ncsu.edu/project/posters/

An effective poster will help you ...

.. engage colleagues in conversation
... get your main point(s) across to as many people as possible.


An effective poster is ...

Focused
Focused on a single message.
Graphic
Lets graphs and images tell the story; uses text sparingly.
Ordered
Keeps the sequence well-ordered and obvious.


# An effective poster operates on multiple levels ... source of information
# conversation starter
# advertisement of your work
# summary of your work

An effective poster is not just a standard research paper stuck to a board. A poster uses a different, visual grammar. It shows, not tells. >>More>>
A Poster Uses Visual Grammar

A poster is not just a standard research paper stuck to a board.

An effective poster uses a different, visual grammar.
# It shows, not tells. It expresses your points in graphical terms.

# It avoids visual chaos, with many jagged edges or various-sized boards that distract the viewer. Instead, it guides the viewer by using a visual logic, with an hierarchical structure that emphasizes the main points.

# All elements, even the figure legends, are visible from 4 feet away.

# It displays the essential content - the messages - in the title, main headings and graphics. It indicates the relative importance of elements graphically: each main point is stated in large type-face headings; details are subordinated visually, using smaller type-face. The main headings explain the points, rather than merely stating "results" and letting the viewer hunt for - or even worse, invent - the message.

Are your posters effective, attracting large and enthusiastic audiences? Or, are your posters examined only by your most avid competitors or admirers? >>More>>
Are Your Posters Effective?

Are your posters effective, attracting large and enthusiastic audiences? Or, are your posters examined only by your most avid competitors or admirers?

Do other presumptive colleagues - and poster judges - merely glance at your poster, then cross their eyes and hurry past?

Is the space in front of your poster perennially devoid of people? Do those that do come look at your poster in obvious puzzlement? Does your poster fail to evoke thoughtful questions or interest?

If you are not attracting the wide and enthusiastic audience you deserve, this site can help you.