Deep Dive
Why should visual presentations be intentionally made ugly?
Ugly sketches signal provisionality, inviting collaboration and preventing the 'museum effect' where people think the work is perfect and doesn't need improvement. This boosts creativity and decision-making.
How can visual metaphors improve presentations?
Visual metaphors make information more concrete, memorable, and easier to understand by tapping into what people already know. They also spark new ideas and motivate implementation, as shown in studies with BMW Financial Services.
What is the benefit of using a series of visual images rather than a single one?
A series of visual images, or visual variation, encourages others to extend and build upon the metaphor, enhancing collaboration and understanding. This aligns with variation theory, which states that understanding improves when concepts are viewed in multiple ways.
How does sketching or doodling improve collaboration?
Sketching and doodling create a sense of provisionality, signaling that the work is ongoing and open to improvement. This invites others to collaborate, as opposed to polished visuals that may discourage further input.
What are the three practices for using visuals effectively in presentations?
The three practices are: 1) Making visuals ugly to signal provisionality and invite collaboration, 2) Leading with visual metaphors to make information more concrete and memorable, and 3) Using visual variation to encourage others to build upon and extend the metaphor.
- Ugly sketches are better than perfect slides for collaboration.
- Low perceived finishness invites collaboration.
- Pencil selling is a technique that uses sketches to improve sales.
Shownotes Transcript