GVCM Introduction: Documents as Visual Communication

Name: Tyrone Simpson	Student Number: x00074194
ISM 4011: Introduction to Information Systems
Graphics and Visual Communication for Managers (GVCM)
Introduction: Documents as Visual Communication
DIRECTIONS: 1. Answer the questions as indicated below in the space under the question.  Answers may be found in the appropriate chapter of your GVCM textbook. 2. Change your answers to blue so they can be easily distinguished from the questions. 3. Create a new blog post and copy this information into the post. 4. Once it is pasted into your blog, select all the text (CTRL A) and change the font to TREBUCHET. 5. Change the TITLE of the post to: GVCM Introduction: Documents as Visual Communication
1. To be a powerful business writer, what are four things you should know how to do?
Design documents and electronic presentations that are quickly understood. Create graphs and tables that are easy to process and that enhance reader insight. Incorporate other visual elements like photos, diagrams, and illustrations Use Typography and color to support your message rather than distract from it.
2. In what ways do business readers begin processing information even before they begin reading detailed text in a document?
Business readers will often look to see how long a document is. How many sections it contains. How the document is structured. How the information flows. They will also skim main points quickly to get an idea of content.
3.  From the image of two documents on page XV, explain exactly what elements in the document on top make it easier to read than the document under it on the bottom? Note: The two documents on page XV are composed of “fill text,” which is a block of filler words used to fill a page so the page can be formatted before the actual text is inserted in the document. This is often how newspapers and magazines are designed and formatted before the actual articles are submitted to the publication.
The document has headers to identify each section. The document has numbered lists to group and separate information.
4.  What are at least four ways to make a graph more effective in presenting information?
The graph must be easy to read. The graph must clearly categorize data. The graph must only contain relevant data. The graph must visually communicate this relevant data clearly.
5. The textbook suggests that the graph on the bottom of page XVI is more effective than the graph above it. Do you agree with this? Why or why not?
Yes, the graph on the bottom is more effective because the sales figures are easily readable and categorized.
6. When is it appropriate to use a table to display information?  Did you notice that the text in this document is a table?  Why is this table here?
It is appropriate to use tables to display information when doing presentations and you want to quickly make comparisons of facts, figures, or you need to categorize information. The table in this document is used to separate data to make it easier to comprehend and read.
7. The textbook suggests that as a business communicator, you will be expected to create what kinds of documents on your own without technical support? Do you feel you are able to create these kinds of documents effectively at the present time? Why or why not?
The textbook suggests that as business communicators we are expected to create: Documents with multiple fonts Documents with graphs and tables integrated into the text Reports which integrate photos and diagrams Utilize slide presentations I feel that I am more than capable of creating these documents effectively due to my past experience using this type of media.
8. According to this introductory chapter, what is the goal of the GVCM textbook?
The goal of the GVCM textbook is to help a business communicator make good visual communication decisions and use existing design software more effectively.
9. List and briefly describe what each chapter of the GVCM textbook is about:
Chapter 1: Document Design Overview of basic page layout & typography Chapter 2: Creating Tables and Graphs Key principles of designing graphs & tables Chapter 3: Using Color Guidelines for applying colors in graphics and presentations Chapter 4: Using Photos and Illustrations How to select effective photographs to reinforce the message Chapter 5: Integrating Graphics and Text Best practices for incorporating graphics into text Chapter 6: Using PowerPoint Maximizing the effectiveness of PowerPoint presentations Chapter 7: Selecting a Graphic Designer Basic advice for selecting a professional graphic designer
10. Describe three benefits of being a good visual communicator in the business environment:
Improved communication skills Improved decision making ability The enhanced potential for both professional and business success!