choices have both scientific and artistic implications, presenters can make color
choices based on evidence from the literature.
Including graphics is an effective way to present content in a parsimonious
manner. Bar charts, line graphs, pie charts, diagrams, and scatter plots can com-
municate a wealth of information in a limited space. They are also an effective
way to integrate color into the display. Clip art is another kind of graphic that
can add interest to posters. For example, if the topic is about infant care, then a
border showing babies would be appropriate. Overuse of clip art is discouraged.
Clip art of nurses’ caps and the medical caduceus are not suitable to include in
scholarly nursing presentations.
There are several alternatives available for printing and assembling post-
ers. The most common approach is to use a software package, such as Adobe
Photoshop or Microsoft PowerPoint (Singh, 2013). Using software also allows
for experimenting with spacing, colors, and layouts. Additionally, corrections
can be made easily and business logos can be incorporated. Some presenters
have access at work to large printers capable of printing on paper up to 4 feet
wide. An alternative is to employ a printing company that can quickly print a
poster from digital files. Entire posters are printed on a single sheet of paper
that can be rolled and placed in a tube for easy transport to conferences. There
are some disadvantages to this approach. Because large printers are slow and
require skill to use, printing ahead of time is advisable. If typographical er-
rors are found and revisions are needed, the entire poster, rather than a single
slide, could require reprinting. Another drawback to using large printers is
that presenters have a tendency to include too much information, making it
difficult to read the posters.
A cost-effective alternative to printing on one large poster is to print
PowerPoint slides out individually. These can then be placed directly on the
bulletin board. Printing the slides on higher grade paper conveys a sense of
quality and professionalism. Some presenters laminate their slides to protect
them; however, glare may result, making reading more difficult. Office supply
companies can print and laminate PowerPoint slides, but it is wise to obtain
price quotes before engaging in these services. Construction paper, color-coded
art paper, or commercial paper with preprinted designs are inexpensive ways to
add color. Picture mattes can be used to frame slides and offer another way to
add color, dimension, and distinct boundaries for content sections. Preformed
letters or stencils are sometimes used on picture mattes for the title, author,
and affiliation. Although mattes can be more costly than construction paper,
they can be reused over a number of years. Regardless of the method selected
to print materials, it is never acceptable to handwrite posters for a professional
presentation.498 CHAPTER 19 Sharing the Insights with Others