Summary
The research industry struggles with effectively communicating complex findings, meaning valuable knowledge is often misunderstood or under-utilized. Dense reports and impenetrable data presentations can carry the blame for much of this. However, embracing visual frameworks and storytelling techniques can make complex data more digestible and engaging. Frameworks thinking not only helps findings spread further, but empowers stakeholders to “think with the ideas”—enhancing both the impact and audience of insight. The session will look at some examples of powerful visual framework to enable attendees to learn how to transform complex data into engaging visuals and narratives, and give clear strategies for making insight more accessible and impactful.
Key Insights
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Visual frameworks enhance communication and understanding in research.
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Drawing ideas can lead to new insights and improve stakeholder engagement.
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Frameworks should be useful, visual, and selective to convey complex information effectively.
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Iterative experimentation leads to improved and more precise visualizations.
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Target frameworks to specific stakeholders for greater impact and relevance.
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Utilizing existing models can help in developing effective frameworks in technical environments.
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The process of arranging insights can create new opportunities for understanding connections.
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Engaging team members in the framework development process enriches the final product.
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Frameworks serve as a way to facilitate conversations about complex data and insights.
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Maintain simplicity in visuals to avoid overwhelming stakeholders.
Notable Quotes
"If I can get even one words person to try and experiment with being a pictures person, to me that's mission accomplished."
"Drawing my ideas unlocked a skill that I never thought I had and that skill became a strength."
"The act of arranging information becomes an act of insight."
"Communicative virtuosity—frameworks allow ideas to be shared."
"You can't give them a top-line six-page document; they will not read the transcripts."
"Make sure your diagrams are simple, because complexity can hinder understanding."
"A map is not the territory; you can't represent the whole thing."
"Your framework is like a skeleton of the idea."
"You need to be quite selective when abstracting information for frameworks."
"Always remember that iteration is key; you aren't going to get it right the first time."
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