Topic 4: Non-Verbal, Visual, & Electronic Communication
Lesson 2: Visual and Audio-Visual Communication
When messages need to be simplified, standardized, or made more memorable, visual and audio-visual tools become indispensable.
Visual Communication:
- Definition: The conveyance of ideas and information using visual elements like images, symbols, and designs.
- Purpose: To present complex data quickly, clearly, and memorably.
- Common Channels:
- Graphs and Charts: Bar graphs, pie charts, line graphs to represent numerical data.
- Diagrams and Flowcharts: To illustrate processes, hierarchies (org charts), or relationships.
- Maps and Blueprints: For geographical or spatial information.
- Posters and Infographics: To combine images and text for public information or advertising.
- Photographs and Icons: For realism, emotional impact, or universal recognition.
- Advantages:
- Transcends language barriers.
- Enhances understanding and retention.
- Grabs and holds attention.
- Simplifies complex information.
Audio-Visual (A/V) Communication:
- Definition: The combination of sound and visual components to create a multi-sensory communication experience.
- Channels: Videos, films, television, PowerPoint presentations with embedded audio, webinars, videoconferencing.
- Advantages:
- High Impact: Engages both sight and hearing for greater influence.
- Demonstration: Ideal for showing processes, products in use, or testimonials.
- Consistency: Delivers a uniform message to a dispersed audience.
- Training and Education: Highly effective for instructional purposes.
- Principles for Effective Use:
- Support, Don’t Dominate: A/V aids should complement the speaker, not replace them.
- Simplicity: Avoid clutter; one key idea per visual.
- Professionalism: Ensure high-quality production and seamless operation.
- Relevance: All visuals and sounds must directly support the core message.
Application in Business:
- Training: Using videos to demonstrate procedures.
- Marketing: Television ads and online promotional videos.
- Reporting: Using charts in annual reports.
Presentations: Using slides to structure and emphasize key points.