Stories that Move Mountains: Storytelling and Visual Design for Persuasive Presentations

Content Coding

Now it's time to focus on time for you to visually communicating the data in the best way possible — what devices, such as photos or cartoons, will you use? (If publishing, always make sure you have permission to use any sourced content.) How can you visually represent the various “players” in your story? Chances are, you're showing some combination of people, processes, and deliverables — or inputs, outputs, and what happens in between.

For example, if you have a process, how will you communicate an outcome at the end of the process? Use the visual device checklist on the following pages to clarify how to get your visual voice heard.

What is the best way for your audience to understand what you are trying to say? Content coding and formatting of your layout will solidify your message. Presenting certain kinds of information may not be possible in limited spaces, so consider that fact carefully as you determine your choices, based on your understanding of your audience.

All of these coding elements will create a type of coding system. When taken together, they will not only solidify your message, but when used correctly, they will give your audience multiple ways to understand the depth of the information being communicated, as well as the data it comes from: Data creates information, which is the meaning that can bring the audience to action.

Semiotics, the study of signs and symbols, is a fascinating area. In talking about icons, you could use the word fire ...