The University of Adelaide Poster Power: Meaning and Message Peter Murdoch March 2014 PREPARING GOOD LOOKING DOCUMENTS

The University of Adelaide Slide 1 Poster Power: Meaning and Message During this session we will look at the range of issues you might need to consider when preparing a poster. I will also talk about some of the things I have found helpful for preparing good looking posters.

The University of Adelaide Slide 2 What is the poster for/about? What are some of the reasons why you might need to develop a poster? What different types of posters are there?

The University of Adelaide Slide 3 What is the poster for/about? Make sure you understand the purpose of your poster and follow any specific requirements for its creation. Who is the intended audience for your poster? What type of poster is it? –what type of content is it –what type of design will suit it –what poster format will work best What message are you trying to convey?

The University of Adelaide Slide 4 Setting up the poster file Set up your poster file correctly so that you get the expected outcome at the end of the process. This can save you from wasting a lot of effort along the way. Understand the requirements Prepare a draft specification Set up the basic poster file

The University of Adelaide Slide 5 Adding text and images Pre-prepare your text and images for inclusion so you avoid having to make lots of changes later. As you add the content, think about how the parts can fit together to support the flow of the information. Compile your resources Develop an initial draft and then refine the content Prepare images and other graphical content Initial placement and layout

The University of Adelaide Slide 6 Arranging and styling the content Once ready, you can then begin the creative process of laying out and styling the poster into its final form. Play around with the placement and formatting of the elements. How can you highlight the key points. Step back and review your progress, making modifications as necessary. Get a second opinion. Arrange the content Format the text Refine your poster design

The University of Adelaide Slide 7 Outputting the file for printing When the time for printing arrives you want it to print according to plan and come back looking like what you were expecting. Minimise unexpected results by checking the file before you send it. If you need to, ask for a proof copy before you commit to the final print. Which suppliers can you use? How can you prepare the final file for submission? What finishing and hanging techniques are there?

The University of Adelaide Slide 8 Summary A well designed and thought out poster will have a greater visual impact and help carry your message more clearly to the intended audience. Its carefully planned construction and an understanding of the requirements for printing will help ensure the smooth and successful production of the final poster.

The University of Adelaide Slide 9 Thank You © The University of Adelaide 2014