Yesterday I attended the Twin Cities Research Group Brown Bag. Don Feeney, Research and Planning Director at the Minnesota Lottery, presented on the topic “Graphic Revelations: Effective Communications through Statistical Graphics”.
The presentation contained lots of great information. Below are some items from my notes I thought you might find interesting.
Why is written and verbal communication different than graphical communication?
Written and verbal communication is a linear process. There is a beginning, middle and end. On the other hand, graphical communication requires the viewer to take a much more active role in interpreting the information. They can decide where they start viewing the information, how long they want to spend on a particular item, and if they want to revisit any portion.
How can I create visuals that connect with my audience?
Similar to written or verbal communication, knowing your audience is important. Here are some questions to consider when creating your next graph or visual.
- How much does my audience know about the subject?
- How much time is available for them to absorb the information?
- Can the data be made meaningful using a visual?
- Is my audience graphically literate?
- How concerned will they be about methodology?
- What’s my message (i.e. what’s my headline)?
- Should I be using a graph?
Why is the statement “great graphics in your presentation” not necessarily a complement?
Although it is wonderful to be rewarded for your outstanding ability to make information aesthetically pleasing, a better compliment would be, “wow, there was some really great information in your presentation.”