As scientists, your commitment to precision and robust data is unwavering. When you present at congresses and symposia, every slide is meticulously crafted and packed with critical information.
But are we missing a powerful opportunity to amplify our research beyond the Congress?
This is what I’ve observed when travelling around the world with my clients and speakers: A complete change in audience behaviour.
10 years ago, no one would have been taking pictures of slides at a congress. Today, everybody does it. 10 years ago, you would have to design your slides for redistribution. Today, your main distribution channel is via audience smartphones.
This isn’t just about personal note-taking; it’s a latent distribution network waiting to be activated. Every photo taken of your slide is a potential share, a digital ripple effect that can extend your findings to hundreds, even thousands, beyond your immediate audience.
This isn’t about simplifying your science or sacrificing accuracy. It’s about optimising its visual impact so that when someone snaps a photo, that image is compelling enough to be shared across their professional networks locally. In essence, it’s about making your data ‘social media-ready’ without compromising its integrity.
AI generated image of an ‘instagrammable’ slide
Here are 5 tips to make your data slides more ‘Instagrammable’ without sacrificing precision:
- Use high contrast visuals: Text and data points should stand out sharply against the background. Think dark text on light backgrounds or vice-versa for maximum readability on a small screen.
- Don’t be afraid of white space: Don’t cram too much information. Give your data room to breathe. This makes individual elements easier to photograph clearly. Spread over two slides if that makes for a better visual.
- Have one key message per slide: Focus each slide on a singular, undeniable conclusion or finding. Put the key message in your headline. This makes the “take-home” message instantly apparent, even in a quick glance or photo.
- Simplify chart design: Opt for clean, clear chart types with minimal clutter. Label axes clearly and use distinct colours for different data sets.
- Remember branding: Include your institution’s logo or your name subtly but clearly. When your slide is shared, it ensures credibility and traceability back to your work.
Next time you’re presenting, follow these tips to take your slides from forgettable to Instagrammable, and amplify the reach of your work.
