Visualization

Visualization is a means to make presentations and discussions, and thus sharing of information and knowledge more efficient and effective. The spoken word is supported by a visual representation (text, pictures, graphics, etc.). The most frequently used means of visualization in meetings are beamer or overhead projector for presentations, and charts or cards for recording discussions. And not to forget the strengths of objects such as stones, figures, wood, grains, etc. that are powerful visualization tools in a discussion with non literate people.

Visualization …

helps to stay focused on the point under discussion,

makes the content easier to remember,

forces the speaker to prepare his/her input in advance using precise and concrete arguments,

reduces emotional implications in a heated discussion,

serves as documentation by recording statements, ideas, results and to-do lists.

Rules of visualization

Write legibly! Check font size, density, contrast; block lettering, distance between letters and words.

Use colours restrictively! White chart paper increases legibility. Use black markers for general text and coloured ones for special effects and decoration. If using pin-board cards, select pastel-coloured cards.

Let posters speak for themselves! Put an attractive title on top or in the centre. Structure your poster to guide the eye (titles, paragraphs, bullets, boxes, mind-map format, etc.). Take the reading direction into account (top to bottom or from centre outwards). Be aware of the saying: "If the eye is not attracted, the feet will pass by."

Use a simple language. Avoid abbreviations.

Install technical equipment before the meeting! Check if it is running properly. Verify the legibility of the visualization.

Peer Assist

Peer Assist is the most economic way of designing a project and avoiding errors and mistakes based on others' experience and knowledge. It is a method of knowledge and experience sharing among two teams, based on dialogue and mutual respect. A work team starting up a new project or task – the hosts – call on another team with experience in the respective field of activity.

Peer Assist allows the requesting team to gain input and insights from people outside the team, and to identify possible new lines of enquiry or approach – in short, reusing existing knowledge and experience rather than having to reinvent the wheel.

It is worth using a Peer Assist when a team is facing a challenge, where the knowledge and experience of others will really help, and when the potential benefits outweigh the costs of travel.

While Peer Assist is used for planning, Peer Review is the analogue tool for evaluation.

Steps in a Peer Assist

The host team clarifies the purpose and invites an experienced team (6 to 8 persons).

At the start of the Peer Assist itself, the host and facilitator allow time for socializing and create a good climate among participants.

The presenter(s) of the host team explain the project; brief and precise: 10 to 15 minutes will be enough. They express the specific needs of the team and the expected outcome.

The visiting team further explores the situation and gives feedback to what they learnt.

The visiting team identifies options to solve the problem. The host team listens carefully and the facilitator records these options.

The visiting team presents their final feedback. The host team is prepared to hear something it did not expect.

The host team commits to follow-up actions and to keeping the visiting team updated.

Together, they identify lessons learnt and further interested persons to share with.

Дата добавления: 2015-11-16