TPC Poster FAQs/Quick Reference

 

Consider:

• A poster is an effective visual communication tool. If you’re not present, the audience should still be able to get something from it.
• It should be mostly visuals/illustrations and have limited, concise text. There is beauty in brevity.
• It should focus on one single message.
• Keep the sequence ordered and obvious.

 

Display and interaction:

• Size: No larger than 40“ x 40”. Consider the weight of any 3D item as the posters will be displayed using push pins.
• Your name and title of poster (for further contacts). The title needs to be the same as appears in the program.
• Font:
• Size at least 28pt. Consider 40pt for the title (bolded). The poster should be easily visible from 2 meters away.
• Use both upper and lower case for general content.
• Using color can be effective or ineffective. Print it out and stand away and close to see if it appears blurry. White on blue, or red and black on yellow are easy to see.
• Avoid any highlighters used for text, limited neon, and reflective materials.
• Supply a quick reference sheet for viewers to take away which includes your full name, poster title and contact info. This could be a strip of paper.
• The poster’s aim is to start a dialogue. Consider having your initial speaking time be about 1 minute for intro/ overview and summary. Allow time for dialogue and ease for those who ‘drop in’ to get the gist quickly.

For more ideas go to: Creating Effective Poster Presentations: An Effective Poster by George Hess, Kathryn Tosney, and Leon Liegdel, where some of these tips come from.